tagAlt.Fresh Tagliatelle with Almond Pesto

Handmade Tagliatelle with Creamy Almond Basil Pesto

Almonds create a sensational pesto: more affordable, accessible, and absolutely irresistible!

  • ( Scored 5 on 1 reviews )

David:

Amazing recipe for fresh tagliatelle (my favorite pasta to make as it is fun and very, very easy) with an almond pesto! Almond pesto is great: almonds...

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Are you a fan of pesto and eager to explore new twists on this beloved Italian sauce? If you’re passionate about the timeless flavors of classic Basil Pesto but want to add a unique spin, this recipe is a must-try.
We’ve reimagined the traditional Ligurian pesto by swapping out pine nuts for almonds, a substitution that keeps the herbal and cheesy flavors intact while bringing a subtle sweetness and a delightful new texture to the sauce.
This Almond Basil Pesto offers more than just an alternative ingredient—it’s a practical solution when pine nuts are scarce or expensive and creates a pesto that’s just as vibrant and easy to prepare, perfect for bustling weeknights or impromptu dinners.
Not only is this almond-based pesto a wonderful match for fresh pasta, but its versatility shines: use it as a vibrant base for salad dressings, drizzle it over grilled vegetables, or spread it on toasted bread for an Italian-style snack. Preparing a double batch can be a lifesaver, giving you a delicious shortcut for your next meal.
Rooted in centuries of Italian culinary tradition, pesto’s origins date back to Genoa, where the pounding of fresh basil, cheese, and olive oil in a mortar has been celebrated since the 19th century. This almond variation honors that heritage, while embracing modern tastes and convenience.
Looking for more authentic Italian pasta sauces? Explore our recipe collection for inspiration to delight your family with quick, flavorful dishes.
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Ingredients

for 4 servings

Homemade Tagliatelle Dough

  • Semola flour 400 grams
  • Egg 4

Fresh Almond Pesto Sauce Ingredients

  • Basil (Leaves) 125 grams
  • Almonds 150 grams
  • Extra-virgin olive oil 200 ml2
  • Parmesan cheese (Grated) 100 grams
  • Garlic Cloves 0.5
  • Salt as needed

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Preparation

for 4 servings

Step

1

Of 3

Prepare the Homemade Tagliatelle

In a medium bowl, combine semola flour and eggs. Begin kneading until you achieve a soft, smooth dough that holds together without sticking.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and continue kneading with the heel of your hand until it becomes elastic, supple, and cohesive.
Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to preserve moisture and elasticity. Let it rest at room temperature for at least 15 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
After resting, unwrap the dough and shape it into a rectangle roughly the width of your pasta machine.
Start rolling the dough through a pasta machine, dusting both the dough and the rollers with semola to prevent sticking. Gradually reduce the thickness setting, passing the dough through several times until you reach your preferred thinness.
Generously flour your work area with semola. Cut the dough into manageable pieces and use a tagliatelle cutter or the appropriate attachment to slice the dough into classic tagliatelle ribbons.
Form the tagliatelle into loose nests and place them on a wooden board dusted with semola. Let them rest briefly while you prepare the pesto.

Step

2

Of 3

Blend the Rich Almond Basil Pesto

Carefully rinse and dry the fresh basil, removing any tough stems. In a food processor or blender, pulse the almonds until finely chopped. Add Parmigiano Reggiano and a portion of the extra-virgin olive oil, blending to form a coarse paste.
Add chopped garlic and the cleaned basil leaves, then continue blending. Slowly drizzle in the remaining olive oil until you achieve a creamy, cohesive sauce.
The finished pesto should have a smooth yet textured consistency, with all ingredients well incorporated. Transfer the sauce to a small bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step

3

Of 3

Assemble and Serve the Dish

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the freshly made tagliatelle and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, thin the pesto with a spoonful of cold water if needed to achieve a silky coating consistency.
Drain the tagliatelle and toss immediately with the almond basil pesto, ensuring the ribbons are evenly coated.
Divide the pasta among serving plates and finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano.
Enjoy this dish piping hot, savoring the aroma and the harmonious blend of flavors.

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Filippo Bartolotta

Filippo Bartolotta

...Great Italian Goodies!

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Reviews

D

David Friday 19th of March 2021

Almonds!

Amazing recipe for fresh tagliatelle (my favorite pasta to make as it is fun and very, very easy) with an almond pesto! Almond pesto is great: almonds are a lot easier to find than pine-nuts, and they are also a lot cheaper...perfect!

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