Gluten-Free Jalapeño Pesto Pasta Recipe

Craving a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish but need to avoid gluten? Look no further! This Gluten-Free Jalapeño Pesto Pasta recipe is a game-changer. It’s packed with fresh flavors, a delightful kick of heat, and is incredibly easy to make.

Why Gluten-Free Pasta?

Whether you have celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or simply prefer to avoid gluten, this recipe uses your favorite gluten-free pasta. Many excellent options are available made from rice, corn, quinoa, or a blend of gluten-free flours. Choose one that holds its shape well when cooked.

The Star: Jalapeño Pesto

This isn’t your average pesto! We’re adding a vibrant twist with fresh jalapeños. Don’t worry, you can adjust the heat to your preference. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor, or leave them in for a spicier experience. The pesto is a blend of fresh basil, jalapeño, parmesan cheese (optional for dairy-free), pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly alternative), garlic, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. It’s bright, zesty, and utterly delicious.

Recipe: Gluten-Free Jalapeño Pesto Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 pound gluten-free pasta
• 2 cups fresh basil
• 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook gluten-free pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While pasta cooks, make the pesto. Combine basil, jalapeño, parmesan cheese (if using), pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice in a food processor. Pulse until smooth, adding more olive oil if needed to reach desired consistency.
3. Season pesto with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta and jalapeño pesto. Add a little pasta water at a time to create a creamy sauce.
5. Serve immediately. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.

Tips & Variations:

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
• Roast the jalapeños before adding them to the pesto for a smokier flavor.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth of flavor.

Enjoy this flavorful and easy gluten-free pasta dish! It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Search terms: gluten-free pasta, jalapeño pesto, easy pasta recipe, gluten-free dinner, spicy pasta.

Ingredients:
Gluten-free pasta, fresh basil, jalapeños, grated parmesan cheese (optional), pine nuts or walnuts, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper

Tags:
Gluten-Free, Pasta, Jalapeño Pesto, Recipe, Gluten-Free Pasta, Easy Pasta Recipe, Gluten-Free Dinner, Spicy Pasta, Pesto, Jalapeño, Basil, Italian Food, Dairy-Free Option, Vegetarian, Weeknight Dinner, Pine Nuts, Walnuts