Use print to print the article or save it as a PDF. “Save article” downloads a clean HTML copy for offline reading.
This dish reimagines the classic Pesto alla Genovese with a fiery Sicilian twist, known as Pesto Pantesco. Fresh mint and basil are blended with garlic, capers, and crushed red pepper to create a vibrant, herbaceous sauce that packs a serious kick. The brightness of ripe plum tomatoes cuts through the richness of the extra virgin olive oil, while the sharp, salty notes of freshly grated Pecorino Locatelli cheese elevate the flavor profile. Tossed with tender al dente ziti, this pasta is quick to prepare and bursting with fresh, aromatic flavors.
0
Add to Favorites
Ziti With Spicy Pesto Pantesco & Locatelli
Description
This dish reimagines the classic Pesto alla Genovese with a fiery Sicilian twist, known as Pesto Pantesco. Fresh mint and basil are blended with garlic, capers, and crushed red pepper to create a vibrant, herbaceous sauce that packs a serious kick. The brightness of ripe plum tomatoes cuts through the richness of the extra virgin olive oil, while the sharp, salty notes of freshly grated Pecorino Locatelli cheese elevate the flavor profile. Tossed with tender al dente ziti, this pasta is quick to prepare and bursting with fresh, aromatic flavors.Ingredients
Directions
-
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 2 tablespoons of salt.
-
In a blender, combine the mint, basil, parsley, garlic, capers, tomatoes, black pepper, crushed red pepper, and half of the olive oil.
-
Pulse the blender in short bursts until the ingredients are roughly chopped.
-
Turn the blender on high and slowly drizzle in the remaining olive oil, processing until the pesto is smooth and emulsified, about 1 minute.
-
Transfer the finished pesto to a large serving bowl and set aside.
-
Cook the ziti pasta in the boiling water according to package instructions until just al dente.
-
Drain the pasta well, reserving a splash of pasta water if needed for consistency.
-
Add the hot drained pasta to the bowl with the pesto and toss thoroughly to coat evenly.
-
Sprinkle generously with grated Pecorino Locatelli cheese and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 650kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 35g54%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Cholesterol 25mg9%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 70g24%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
pasta, ziti, pesto, spicy, italian, basil, mint, pecorino, locatelli, quick dinner, summer pasta, capers, garlic, tomato, olive oil, herb sauce, al dente, mediterranean
