Spicy Pesto Cascatelli

Introduction

Spicy Pesto Cascatelli is the perfect combination of bold flavors and exciting textures. The creamy pesto, infused with a punch of heat, clings beautifully to the unique, ridged cascatelli pasta. It’s a dish that’s not only visually striking but also packed with flavor, making every bite an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re craving a flavorful weeknight dinner or want to wow your guests at your next gathering, this pasta dish delivers on both taste and presentation.

What I love about this recipe is how the heat from the spicy ingredients perfectly complements the creamy richness of the pesto. The cascatelli pasta is the real star here, with its shape designed to catch the sauce in all the right places, giving you a burst of flavor with every forkful. I remember the first time I made it—everyone was so impressed with the complexity of the flavors, especially the spicy kick that sneaks up on you after a few bites. It quickly became a go-to in my pasta repertoire.

This dish is incredibly versatile, too. If you like your pesto a little milder, simply adjust the level of spice to suit your taste. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even add some protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal. Either way, Spicy Pesto Cascatelli is sure to be a hit, leaving your taste buds delighted and your stomach satisfied.

Perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners
• Gourmet pasta lovers
• Fans of spicy dishes
• Casual get-togethers
• Pesto enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Pesto Cascatelli

Here’s why Spicy Pesto Cascatelli will become a must-try dish in your kitchen:

1. Unique Cascatelli Pasta: The ridges and curls of cascatelli are perfect for holding onto the pesto, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
2. Customizable Spice Level: Whether you like just a hint of heat or a fiery kick, you can easily adjust the spice to suit your preferences.
3. Rich and Creamy Sauce: The pesto combines fresh basil, Parmesan, and a touch of heat, creating a sauce that’s as luxurious as it is flavorful.
4. Quick and Easy to Make: With just 30 minutes of preparation, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without too much effort.
5. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The nuttiness of Parmesan, the brightness of basil, and the heat from red pepper flakes make this dish a harmony of taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 60g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Spicy Pesto Cascatelli:

• 12 oz cascatelli pasta
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a variation)
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting tomatoes)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cascatelli Pasta: This uniquely shaped pasta holds sauce beautifully, making every bite full of flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil is the star of the pesto, bringing its signature herby aroma and taste.
• Pine Nuts: Add a creamy nuttiness to the pesto; walnuts are an excellent alternative.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Infuse the pesto with a subtle or bold heat, depending on your preference.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Roasted tomatoes add a sweet, tangy burst of flavor that complements the spicy pesto.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Spicy Pesto:

1. Toast the Pine Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper (if using). Pulse until finely chopped.
3. Add Olive Oil: While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth, creamy pesto. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.

Cook the Cascatelli:

4. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cascatelli according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Roast the Cherry Tomatoes:

5. Prepare the Tomatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
6. Roast the Tomatoes: Spread the tomatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes until they are slightly caramelized and softened.

Combine and Serve:

7. Mix the Pasta and Pesto: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the spicy pesto. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
8. Add the Roasted Tomatoes: Gently fold in the roasted cherry tomatoes.
9. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and enjoy!

How to Serve Spicy Pesto Cascatelli

Serve Spicy Pesto Cascatelli in various creative and appetizing ways:

• With Crusty Bread: Pair with warm, crusty bread to soak up the extra pesto sauce.
• As a Main Dish: Serve it as the star of the meal, accompanied by a light salad.
• Topped with Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Family-Style Platter: Serve on a large platter for sharing at dinner parties or gatherings.
• With a Glass of Lemonade: Balance the heat with a refreshing, tangy drink.

Additional Tips for Spicy Pesto Cascatelli

Follow these tips to make your Spicy Pesto Cascatelli even better:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality olive oil make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your pesto.
• Adjust Spice to Taste: Start with less spice and gradually increase to suit your heat tolerance.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta for a silky texture.
• Toast Nuts for More Flavor: Toasting pine nuts enhances their nutty flavor, adding depth to the pesto.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cascatelli’s unique shape is best enjoyed with a slightly firm, al dente texture.

Recipe Variations for Spicy Pesto Cascatelli

Here are 10 exciting ways to customize Spicy Pesto Cascatelli:

1. Vegan Pesto: Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use a dairy-free pasta option.
2. Nut-Free Version: Swap pine nuts with sunflower seeds or skip the nuts entirely.
3. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Blend sun-dried tomatoes into the pesto for a tangy twist.
4. Spicy Lemon Pesto: Add fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, citrusy kick.
5. Creamy Pesto: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer, silkier sauce.
6. Extra Veggie Boost: Mix in sautéed zucchini, spinach, or asparagus.
7. Seafood Addition: Add seared scallops or grilled shrimp for a seafood-inspired dish.
8. Cheesy Pesto: Mix in burrata or mozzarella pearls for creamy, cheesy bites.
9. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cascatelli or your favorite gluten-free pasta.
10. Herb Blend: Combine basil with parsley, arugula, or cilantro for a unique flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing the Pesto: Store extra pesto in an airtight container or ice cube trays in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Storing Leftovers: Keep leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

Special Equipment for Spicy Pesto Cascatelli

Here are some tools to make preparing Spicy Pesto Cascatelli easier:

1. Food Processor: Essential for making a smooth, creamy pesto.
2. Large Pot: Perfect for boiling the pasta with enough room to cook evenly.
3. Skillet: Useful for toasting pine nuts.
4. Baking Sheet: Ideal for roasting cherry tomatoes.
5. Garlic Press: Speeds up mincing garlic for the pesto.
6. Cheese Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.
7. Kitchen Scale: Ensures precise pasta and ingredient measurements.
8. Slotted Spoon: Handy for transferring pasta directly from pot to sauce.
9. Mixing Bowls: Great for tossing pasta and sauce together.
10. Serving Tongs: Makes it easy to plate the pasta without mess.

FAQ Section for Spicy Pesto Cascatelli

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, while cascatelli is ideal, you can substitute it with other ridged pasta like fusilli or rigatoni.
2. What if I don’t have pine nuts?
   Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds are great substitutes for pine nuts in pesto.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
   Absolutely! Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast and use vegan pasta.
4. How do I control the spice level?
   Start with a small amount of red pepper flakes and cayenne, then add more to taste.
5. Can I prepare the pesto in advance?
   Yes, the pesto can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Print

Conclusion

Spicy Pesto Cascatelli is the perfect marriage of bold flavors and comforting textures. With its unique pasta shape and vibrant, spicy pesto sauce, this dish is a delightful departure from ordinary pasta recipes. Its versatility, quick preparation, and unforgettable taste make it a go-to choice for weeknight meals or special occasions.

Whether you’re a fan of classic pesto or looking to try something new, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So grab some cascatelli and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as exciting to make as it is to eat! I can’t wait to see how your Spicy Pesto Cascatelli turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Happy cooking!