Peruvian Pesto (Tallarines Verdes) - a velvety and flavorful pesto sauce tossed with pasta to create a quick and tasty meal that's perfect on its own or served as a side.Cook time is for pasta. Time may vary according to directions on package.4-6 Servings as a main dish6-8 Servings as a side
Cook spaghetti al dente according to package directions. I cook about a 1 - 2 minutes less what it states on the package then test by taking a bite of a strand.
While pasta is cooking, quickly, gently, rinse the basil leaves in warm/hot water and drain.
If using a blender, add oil, garlic, basil, salt, pepper, and cheese. Blend until smooth, stopping as needed to push down ingredients.
To remove all the sauce out of blender, pour sauce out of blender onto pasta. Using tongs, grab some of the pasta and without releasing your grip, use the pasta to "wash" out the blender. I use a Vitamix which does not have a removeable bottom and this method works fantastically.
Toss sauce with pasta. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serve alone as a meal or as a side with steak. ¡Al ataque!
Notes
You may also use this pesto sauce on pizza, pasta salads, or add it to mayonnaise.