Ingredients

2 cans roasted red peppers , drained
1/4 cup parmesan cheese , grated
1 cup fresh basil leaf , washed and dried
1/2 cup Italian parsley , washed and dried
2 garlic cloves , peeled
1/2 cup olive oil
1 lb orecchiette
4 tablespoons butter
toasted walnuts , coarsely chopped ( garnish )
12 fresh basil leaves , washed , dried , and cut in thin strips ( garnish )
1/2 cup walnut pieces
This Olive Garden Orecchiette With Red Pepper Pesto recipe is a copycat of the popular Italian restaurant's dish. The creamy red pepper pesto sauce is made with fresh basil, Italian parsley, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Orecchiette pasta is used in the dish, which is a small ear-shaped pasta that is perfect for holding onto the sauce. The dish is topped with toasted walnuts and basil strips, adding a crunchy texture to the creamy pasta dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a dinner party with friends and family.

Instructions

1.Cook orecchiette according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2.In a food processor, blend the roasted red peppers, garlic, basil, parsley, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
3.While blending, slowly pour in the olive oil to emulsify.
4.In a large skillet, heat the butter until melted and foamy.
5.Spoon the pesto into the skillet and add in the reserved pasta water.
6.Mix in the cooked pasta until it is coated with the sauce.
7.Garnish with chopped walnuts and basil strips.
8.Serve immediately.

PROS

This pasta dish is bursting with flavor and is a great option for vegetarian and gluten-free diets.

The ingredients are affordable and easy to find at any grocery store.

It is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option.

CONS

The pesto sauce can be high in calories and fat due to the use of olive oil and Parmesan cheese.

The dish can also be high in carbs due to the pasta.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The red peppers used in the pesto are high in vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin health.
The dish also contains basil and parsley, which are both packed with antioxidants that help fight inflammation in the body.

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