When my week starts to feel like a whirlwind, I often crave a dish that brings both comfort and flavor without keeping me in the kitchen for hours. Enter this Easy Spicy Pesto Cascatelli—a delightful combination of vibrant basil, buttery pine nuts, and a kick of jalapeño that dances on your palate. The manageable 30-minute recipe is perfect for busy evenings, yet it exudes a charm that might just make it the star of your dinner table.
There’s something about the crunch of lemon-garlic panko breadcrumbs on top that transforms this simple pasta into a crunchy, creamy masterpiece. Each bite transports me to a sun-soaked Mediterranean hillside, reminding me that a burst of bright flavors can be quick to make and easy to love. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or simply someone searching for delicious vegetarian meals to spice up the routine, this dish is a savory escape that will leave you feeling satisfied and inspired. Let’s dive in!
Why is Spicy Pesto Cascatelli a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish!
Bursting Flavor: Fresh basil, zingy jalapeño, and creamy stracciatella create a vibrant taste that will excite your taste buds.
Crunchy Texture: The delightful lemon-garlic panko topping adds a satisfying crunch, elevating the entire dish.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what’s in your pantry—gluten-free pasta, anyone?
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for entertaining or a family dinner, this dish offers something for everyone, making it an ideal go-to recipe.
Spicy Pesto Cascatelli Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Cascatelli or short pasta – This unique pasta shape holds onto the sauce beautifully; feel free to use fusilli or penne if you prefer.
For the Pesto
• Basil leaves – Fresh basil adds an aromatic flavor; dried won’t provide the same punch.
• Fresh baby spinach – This green brings vibrant color and nutrients; can be swapped with kale for a heartier texture.
• Jalapeño pepper – Adds delightful heat; remove seeds for a milder experience or exchange it for a sweeter pepper if desired.
• Pine nuts – They enhance the nutty creaminess of the pesto; walnuts or sunflower seeds work well as budget-friendly substitutes.
• Garlic clove – Provides deep flavor; adjust the amount to suit your taste.
• Parmigiano Reggiano – Offers a cheesy umami; Grana Padano is a great alternative if you’re looking for something less expensive.
• Salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors; sea salt or kosher salt are excellent choices.
• Lemon juice – Brightens the dish; fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
• Extra virgin olive oil – Acts as a smooth binder for the pesto; avocado oil makes for an excellent alternative.
For the Topping
• Stracciatella – Adds a creamy start; burrata or goat cheese can be used to vary the flavor.
• Pecorino Sardo – This hard cheese provides a sharp finish; substitute with Romano or aged cheddar for a different profile.
• Plain panko breadcrumbs – Ensure a light, crispy topping; regular breadcrumbs may be used, though they won’t achieve the same texture.
This Easy Spicy Pesto Cascatelli is not only packed with flavor but also a twist on the classic that’s sure to make your weeknights joyful!
How to Make Spicy Pesto Cascatelli
-
Prepare Lemon-Garlic Panko Breadcrumbs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes—avoid burning for the best flavor.
-
Toast Panko: Add ½ cup of plain panko breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt. Toast until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Stir in the juice of half a lemon and toast for another 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on the color.
-
Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1 cup of basil leaves, ¼ cup of pine nuts, 1 garlic clove, and 1 chopped jalapeño. Blend while slowly adding ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil until smooth. Mix in the juice of half a lemon and season with salt.
-
Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook 12 ounces of cascatelli until al dente, reserving ¾ cup of the pasta water before draining.
-
Combine: Return the drained pasta to the sauté pan and toss with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water in small increments until you reach your desired consistency.
-
Serve: Plate the pasta and crown it with generous dollops of stracciatella, crispy panko breadcrumbs, and sprinkle with grated Pecorino Sardo for that extra layer of flavor.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Spicy Pesto Cascatelli Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with these exciting twists that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Roasted Red Pepper: Swap jalapeños for roasted red peppers to bring a milder, sweet flavor to your pasta, balancing the pesto beautifully.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta, ensuring everyone can enjoy this meal without compromising taste or texture.
- Creamy Avocado: For a richer pesto, blend in ripe avocado along with your other ingredients, lending a luscious texture that pairs wonderfully with the pasta.
- Balsamic Drizzle: Add a balsamic reduction drizzle on top for a tangy contrast that elevates the entire dish with a gourmet touch.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in cherry tomatoes or sautéed zucchini for an extra dose of color and nutrients, turning this dish into a vibrant garden delight.
- Heat Level Adjustment: If spiciness vibes aren’t for you, omit the jalapeños entirely, or replace them with bell pepper for a mellow yet delicious flavor.
- Nut-Free Version: Substitute pine nuts with pumpkin seeds or leave them out altogether for a nut-free pesto without losing any of its integrity.
- Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth that complements the freshness of the pesto, making each bite even more savory.
Expert Tips for Spicy Pesto Cascatelli
- Garlic Care: Avoid burning the garlic in your panko to prevent bitterness; keep the heat medium and stir frequently.
- Moisture Control: Reserve that ¾ cup of pasta water! It’s key for adjusting the pesto consistency without diluting the flavor.
- Pesto Texture: Blend your pesto to your preference—smooth or chunky—but ensure it’s combined well for maximum flavor in your Spicy Pesto Cascatelli.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to interchange ingredients to suit your palate, like swapping jalapeños for roasted red peppers for a sweeter profile.
- Crispy Panko: Toast the panko until golden brown for that satisfying crunch—lightly golden means delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Spicy Pesto Cascatelli are perfect for busy weeknight meal prep! You can make the pesto sauce and lemon-garlic panko breadcrumbs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the pesto by blending all the ingredients, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it vibrant and fresh. Likewise, toast the panko breadcrumbs, let them cool, and store them separately to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to cook, boil the pasta, toss it with the prepared pesto, and top with the crispy panko before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade dinner with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Spicy Pesto Cascatelli?
Create a delightful dining experience by choosing the perfect companions for this vibrant dish.
-
Simple Arugula Salad: The peppery bite of fresh arugula brightens the meal, offering a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
-
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread enhances the overall flavors, providing a satisfying textural crunch with each bite.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful, caramelized vegetables brings a hearty touch and additional nutrition, nicely balancing the richness of the pesto.
-
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc accentuates the seasonings and adds a refreshing element to the dining experience.
-
Lemon Sorbet: This light, zesty dessert cleanses the palate, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready for more, perfectly capping off a flavorful meal.
-
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweet, smoky flavor of grilled corn complements the spicy pesto, adding a fun and festive twist to your plate.
Each of these pairings enhances not only the flavor but also the joy of sharing this delicious Spicy Pesto Cascatelli.
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Pesto Cascatelli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the freshness of your Spicy Pesto Cascatelli while minimizing moisture loss.
Freezer: You can freeze the pesto before mixing it with pasta. Transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to use.
Reheating: For best results, reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to achieve the desired consistency. Keep an eye on it to prevent drying out.
Serving Tips: Enjoy the dish fresh whenever possible, as the crispy panko topping is best right after preparation!
Spicy Pesto Cascatelli Recipe FAQs
What kind of pasta is best for Spicy Pesto Cascatelli?
I recommend using cascatelli, a unique short pasta shape that’s perfect for holding onto the creamy pesto sauce. However, if cascatelli isn’t available, feel free to substitute with fusilli or penne for a delightful meal!
How should I store leftover Spicy Pesto Cascatelli?
Absolutely! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to preserve its freshness.
Can I freeze Spicy Pesto for later use?
Yes! Freezing is a great option! To freeze your pesto, simply transfer it to a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray for easy portioning, and it can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge or let it sit at room temperature until softened.
What are some common issues when making pesto?
If your pesto is too thick, simply stir in a small amount of reserved pasta water, adding it gradually until you reach the desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, blend in a bit more basil or Parmesan cheese to thicken it up nicely. Don’t worry—it’s easy to adjust as you go!
Can I make this dish nut-free?
Definitely! To make your Spicy Pesto Cascatelli nut-free, simply substitute the pine nuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Just make sure to adjust the salt accordingly to maintain flavor.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly! It features delicious ingredients like fresh basil, spinach, and creamy stracciatella, making it a delightful option for vegetarians and pasta lovers alike.
Delicious Spicy Pesto Cascatelli for Quick Weeknight Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add ½ cup of plain panko breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt. Toast until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Stir in the juice of half a lemon and toast for another 2-3 minutes.
- In a food processor, combine 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1 cup of basil leaves, ¼ cup of pine nuts, 1 garlic clove, and 1 chopped jalapeño. Blend while slowly adding ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil until smooth.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, reserving ¾ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Return the drained pasta to the sauté pan and toss with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water until desired consistency.
- Plate the pasta and top with stracciatella, crispy panko breadcrumbs, and grated Pecorino Sardo.