Garlic confit pesto pasta is a dish that brings the best of both worlds: irresistible flavor and simplicity. If you’re looking for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, you’re in the right place.
It’s all about using high-quality ingredients, like fresh herbs and great cheese, to transform a simple dish into an exquisite experience.
Imagine the smooth, aromatic garlic confit blending seamlessly with the freshness of basil pesto, all coating perfectly al dente pasta. It’s a culinary experience you won’t forget.
When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted something that combined the bold, rich taste of garlic with a fresh and vibrant twist. I remember picking out the freshest herbs and getting excited about how their flavors would enhance the pasta.
You might be surprised at how well these ingredients work together, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also feels sophisticated without the fuss.
Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or just want to enjoy a comforting bowl of pasta, this garlic confit pesto pasta delivers. The subtle burst of lemon zest and freshly grated cheese melts into the sauce, creating layers of flavors that are hard to resist.
This dish truly is about adding your personal touch, allowing you to make it your own while enjoying every bite.
Why You Will Love Garlic Confit Pesto Pasta
Garlic Confit Pesto Pasta is the perfect mix of rich flavors and simplicity. You’ll find yourself drawn to this dish for its bold taste and ease of preparation.
Think of your kitchen filled with the rich aroma of garlic confit slowly cooking. This savory delight adds depth and transforms any pasta into a gourmet meal.
With only a few ingredients, like basil, garlic, and parmesan, you can impress your guests. You don’t need fancy skills for this dish. Its simplicity is its strength.
Switching from plain pasta sauces to confit garlic pasta brings out a creamy texture you’ll love. Its smooth flavor stands out in each bite.
You’ll appreciate how budget-friendly this pasta is. It doesn’t require rare ingredients, making it an everyday go-to recipe when you want something special but affordable.
Garlic pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
How to Make Garlic Confit Pesto Pasta
To make Garlic Confit Pesto Pasta, you’ll need fresh ingredients, basic kitchen tools, and some easy-to-follow steps. This dish combines the creamy flavors of garlic confit with the punch of basil pesto for a delightful pasta experience.
Ingredients
- Pasta – Choose your favorite type like spaghetti or fettuccine.
- Garlic Confit – Use whole garlic cloves and extra virgin olive oil.
- Pesto – Use fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
- Others – Include salt, black pepper, and a shallot for added taste.
- Cheese and Seasoning – Grated parmesan cheese and kosher salt.
Having the freshest basil and good quality olive oil will enhance the flavors of this dish.
Instruments
- Pot – For boiling the pasta.
- Pan – To mix the garlic confit and pasta together.
- Food Processor – Ideal for making smooth pesto.
- Colander – To drain the pasta while reserving pasta water.
- Spoon and Fork – For stirring and smashing the garlic.
These tools help you efficiently prepare each part of the dish without hassle.
Step By Step Instruction
- Prepare the Garlic Confit: Roast whole garlic cloves in olive oil until tender. The confit should be golden and soft but not browned. Reserve some garlic oil.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your chosen pasta until al dente, keeping a cup of pasta water. This starchy water helps in binding the sauce.
- Make the Pesto: Blend fresh basil, pine nuts, grated parmesan, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: In a pan, mix the pasta with smashed garlic cloves, pesto, a bit of pasta water, salt, and pepper. Slowly stir to coat the pasta.
- Finish with Cheese: Just before serving, add grated parmesan and a dash of garlic oil for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Getting your Garlic Confit Pesto Pasta perfect every time is all about the details. Here are some tips that can help.
First, make sure to cook your pasta until it is al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Cooking it just right helps the pasta hold its shape and absorb your delicious sauce.
When you make garlic confit, gently cook the garlic in olive oil over low heat. This will create an infused oil with a rich, savory flavor. You can use this oil in your pesto pasta and other recipes for an extra flavor boost.
Don’t forget to save some of the reserved pasta water before draining your pasta. This starchy water is perfect for loosening up your sauce and helps it cling perfectly to the noodles. Just a splash can make a big difference.
For storing pesto, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Cover the top with a thin layer of olive oil to keep it fresh. If you make a big batch, you can also freeze some for later. Just use ice cube trays to make single-serving portions.
Try toasting your pine nuts for extra flavor. Simply use a small pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until they’re golden brown. This simple step can elevate your pesto dish with a deeper, nuttier taste.
Ingredient Substitute
When you’re in the kitchen, improvisation can be a lifesaver. Making garlic confit pesto pasta and missing an ingredient? Don’t worry. Many substitutes can keep your dish delicious.
If you’re out of garlic, try using roasted leeks. They add a subtle, sweet flavor. Shallots also work well, offering a mild oniony taste that complements the pasta.
If you find yourself without basil, don’t fret. You can use spinach or arugula instead. These greens give a fresh twist to your pesto, keeping it vibrant and tasty.
Pine nuts too expensive? Use walnuts or almonds. Both work great and bring a different nutty flavor to your sauce.
Need herbs? Thyme and rosemary can add depth to your sauce if you’re out of fresh options. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a bit of heat if you like spicier dishes.
Here’s a quick table for some ideas:
| Ingredient | Substitute |
|---|---|
| Garlic | Roasted Leeks, Shallots |
| Basil | Spinach, Arugula |
| Pine Nuts | Walnuts, Almonds |
| Fresh Herbs | Thyme, Rosemary |
Mix and match these substitutes based on what you have. You might just discover a new favorite twist on your garlic confit pesto pasta.
What to Serve with Garlic Confit Pesto Pasta
When you enjoy garlic confit pesto pasta, you’ll want some tasty sides to go with it. Here are some ideas that pair well with this flavorful dish.
Garlic Bread: A trusty favorite, garlic bread adds a crispy, buttery touch that matches nicely with the rich pesto. Toast it to perfection for a delicious crunch.
Caprese Salad: Made with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, this salad is light and fresh. Add a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze to tie the flavors together.
More Ideas
- Grilled Chicken or Salmon: For a more filling meal, serve grilled chicken or salmon. The savory flavors from the grill add depth and pair well with the pasta.
- Caesar Salad: This offers a refreshing, crispy contrast with romaine lettuce and tangy dressing.
These pairings will make your dinner extra special. Choose your favorites and enjoy a wonderful meal!
Nutrition Fact In List Form
When you’re thinking about trying Garlic Confit Pesto Pasta, you should know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you out:
- Calories: Around 450 to 600 per 9 ½ oz serving
- Carbohydrates: About 49% of the total calories come from carbs
- Fat: Consists of 41% to 49% of the total calories
- Protein: Makes up 10% of the total calories
Here’s more details to consider:
- Fats: Approximately 23g to 38g per serving
- Saturated Fat: Around 6g, which accounts for 30% of the daily value
- Iron: Provides 68% of your Daily Value
- Vitamin A: Gives you 17% of your Daily Value
Garlic Confit Pesto Pasta
Equipment
- Pot (for boiling pasta)
- Pan (for mixing pasta and garlic confit)
- Food Processor (for making pesto)
- Colander for draining pasta
- Spoon and Fork (for stirring and smashing garlic)
Ingredients
- Pasta spaghetti or fettuccine
- Garlic Confit whole garlic cloves in extra virgin olive oil
- Pesto fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Shallot optional for added flavor
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Garlic oil from the confit
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic Confit: Roast garlic cloves in olive oil until golden and soft.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta until al dente, saving a cup of pasta water.
- Make the Pesto: Blend fresh basil, pine nuts, parmesan, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a pan, toss pasta with smashed garlic cloves, pesto, and a bit of pasta water. Season with salt and pepper.
- Finish with Cheese: Add grated parmesan and a drizzle of garlic oil before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: Around 450-600 per 9½ oz serving
- Carbs: 49% of total calories
- Fat: 41-49% of total calories (23g-38g per serving)
- Protein: 10% of total calories
- Saturated Fat: 6g (30% of daily value)
- Iron: 68% of daily value
- Vitamin A: 17% of daily value
