Pesto Pasta with Pecorino: Bright, Garlicky, Irresistible
There’s something about Pesto Pasta with Pecorino that feels like pure sunshine on a plate—vibrant green basil sauce clinging to twirled pasta, brightened with garlic and olive oil, finished with salty, nutty Pecorino. It’s simple Italian magic: fresh, bold flavors that come together fast and satisfy every craving.
The key to great pesto? Freshly grated Pecorino that melts beautifully into the sauce. A quick spin with the Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater delivers fluffy shreds in seconds—no fuss, no scraped knuckles. Let’s make this classic your new weeknight favorite.
🌿Ingredients (Serves 4)
12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano
⅓ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
2–3 garlic cloves
Salt & freshly cracked black pepper
Optional: lemon zest for brightness, red pepper flakes for heat
🍳Step-by-Step: Pesto Pasta Perfection
1. Grate the Pecorino
Use the crank cheese grater with the fine shred blade for light, fluffy Pecorino—perfect for smooth melting into the sauce.
2. Toast the Nuts
Lightly toast pine nuts in a dry pan until golden and fragrant. Let cool slightly.
3. Blend the Pesto
In a food processor or blender, combine basil, toasted nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Pulse while drizzling in olive oil until smooth. Stir in grated Pecorino by hand—taste and adjust seasoning.
4. Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in generously salted water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Toss & Serve
Return pasta to the pot off heat. Add pesto and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until every strand is coated and glossy. Serve with extra Pecorino and black pepper on top.
🔥Tips & Twists
Creamier Version – Stir in a dollop of ricotta.
Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken or shrimp.
Veggie Twist – Toss in cherry tomatoes or roasted veggies.
Nut-Free – Swap nuts for sunflower seeds.
Make-Ahead – Pesto keeps in the fridge for days—top with oil to stay bright green.
🍝Conclusion: Your New Go-To Pasta Night
Pesto Pasta with Pecorino is bright, bold, and ridiculously easy—fresh basil and salty cheese in perfect harmony. With the cheese shredder handling the Pecorino effortlessly, you’ll have restaurant-quality shreds ready before the water even boils.
