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CHILLI-PESTO PASTA

5 from 1 vote
Ever wondered what happens when you bring together the fiery flair of chili and the aromatic allure of pesto? You get the dynamic duo known as Chilli-pesto pasta. A favorite of many at AH7, this dish combines zest and zestiness in each bite. Read on to find out how to create this plate of pure perfection!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta: 8 oz 227g
  • Fresh red chillies deseeded and finely chopped: 2
  • Basil leaves fresh: 2 cups (approx. 480ml)
  • Olive oil: 4 tbsp 60ml
  • Pine nuts: 2 tbsp 30g
  • Garlic minced: 2 cloves
  • Parmesan cheese grated: 1/2 cup (45g)
  • Salt: 1 tsp 5g
  • Lemon zest and juice: from 1 lemon

Method
 

  1. Start by boiling a pot of water.
  2. Add a pinch of salt and the pasta.
  3. Cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
  4. In the meantime, in a blender, combine chillies, basil, half of the olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
  5. Blitz until you get a smooth paste. This is your chilli-pesto!
  6. In a pan, heat the remaining olive oil.
  7. Add the chilli-pesto and stir for 2-3 minutes, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
  8. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and keep aside a cup of pasta water.
  9. Mix the pasta into the pan with chilli-pesto, adding pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
  10. Garnish with lemon zest and serve hot.

Notes

TIPS FOR A PERFECT CHILLI-PESTO PASTA:
1. Adjust the amount of chilli according to your heat preference.
2. Reserve pasta water; it’s great for adjusting the consistency of the sauce.
3. Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor.
4. Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
  • A side of garlic bread pairs beautifully with the zest of Chilli-pesto pasta.
  • Consider pairing with a light green salad to balance out the heat.
  • Freshly grated parmesan on top? Always a good idea!
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can elevate the freshness.