When I’m craving a comforting bowl of pasta that transports me straight to the vibrant streets of Peru, nothing satisfies quite like Tallarines Verdes. The moment I blend together fresh basil and spinach, the enticing aroma fills my kitchen, evoking memories of family gatherings and shared meals. This traditional dish is not just about its beautiful green color; it’s a harmonious blend of flavors that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
Whether you’re whipping this up for yourself or impressing friends, Tallarines Verdes stands out with its creamy, luxurious sauce and the option to elevate it with perfectly grilled steak. It’s a comforting embrace for your taste buds, while still being easy enough to prepare on busy evenings. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into making this iconic Peruvian green spaghetti that’s sure to become a go-to in your culinary repertoire!
Why is Tallarines Verdes the ultimate comfort food?
Creamy Richness: The luscious basil and spinach pesto turns your pasta into a dreamy delight that’s rich yet refreshing.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners without compromising on flavor.
Versatile Option: Serve it simply vegetarian or elevate with grilled steak for a complete meal.
Nostalgic Flavors: Its vibrant taste captures the essence of Peruvian cuisine, making every bite a journey home.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family or guests, everyone will love this comforting dish that’s sure to impress!
Tallarines Verdes Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delicious dish!
For the Pesto Sauce
- Spinach Leaves – Adds vibrant color and nutrients; ensure leaves are packed for maximum flavor.
- Basil Leaves – Provides aromatic freshness; can substitute with parsley for a different herbaceous note.
- Queso Blanco or Queso Fresco – These cheeses create creaminess and depth; use ricotta or feta as a substitute.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor; freshly peeled for best results.
- Shallot – Adds subtle sweetness; yellow onion can be substituted.
- Walnuts – Contributes nuttiness and texture; pecans or sunflower seeds are viable alternatives.
- Olive Oil – Essential for blending the pesto and adds richness; avocado oil can be a substitute.
- Evaporated Milk – Provides creaminess; can use heavy cream for a richer sauce.
For the Pasta
- Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust according to taste or use sea salt.
- Freshly Ground Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; optional but recommended.
- Pasta of Choice – Any pasta works; spaghetti is traditional.
This flavorful Tallarines Verdes is sure to become a cherished comfort food in your kitchen!
How to Make Tallarines Verdes
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Blend the Sauce: Combine spinach, basil, queso, garlic, shallot, walnuts, olive oil, and evaporated milk in a blender. Blend until smooth, adjusting with salt and pepper until the flavors sing.
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Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
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Mix the Pasta and Sauce: Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water for later. Return the pasta to the pot and pour in the vibrant green sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated. Add reserved pasta water gradually for a perfect consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the Tallarines Verdes into bowls, garnishing with extra queso fresco and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. Optional: Top with sliced grilled steak for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Tallarines Verdes?
Imagine a table adorned with vibrant flavors and comforting aromas, perfectly complementing your delicious Tallarines Verdes.
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Grilled Steak: The tender meat adds a savory contrast, making each bite a delightful interplay of flavors.
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Chicha Morada: This refreshing Peruvian drink balances the richness of the pasta, offering a sweet and tangy palate cleanser.
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Papa a la Huancaina: Creamy and spicy cheese sauce over potatoes provides a rich side that enhances the meal’s comfort factor.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a citrus vinaigrette brightens the meal, cutting through the creamy pasta beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, it’s perfect for scooping up the luscious sauce, making every morsel enjoyable.
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Fresh Fruit Dessert: A light dessert like sliced mango or seasonal berries offers a sweet finish that won’t overshadow your main dish. Enjoy harmonizing flavors that elevate your dining experience!
Expert Tips for Tallarines Verdes
- Texture Check: Add pasta water gradually for the sauce’s desired consistency; it should cling to the pasta without being soupy.
- Taste Test: Always taste your pesto before adding more salt—queso blanco can be subtly salty, so adjust accordingly.
- Blend Well: Ensure that you blend the ingredients until completely smooth to achieve that creamy, luxurious finish in your Tallarines Verdes.
- Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh spinach and basil for the best flavor impact; wilted plants can lead to a lackluster pesto.
- Serving Suggestions: Experiment by pairing with various proteins; grilled steak makes for a delightful complement, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Tallarines Verdes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can prepare the green sauce up to 3 days in advance by blending all ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; this preserves the vibrant color and flavors. Alternatively, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option—just thaw in the fridge before use. To finish the dish, simply cook your pasta right before serving, combine it with the sauce, and use reserved pasta water for the ideal consistency. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready in minutes, just as delicious as when made fresh!
Tallarines Verdes Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to make it your own, adding your favorite flavors and ingredients.
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Vegan Option: Omit cheese or use nutritional yeast, and replace evaporated milk with coconut or almond milk for creaminess.
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Nut-Free: Instead of walnuts, try sunflower seeds for a safe alternative that still provides texture and flavor.
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Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh parsley or cilantro instead of basil for a delightful twist on traditional pesto.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce to bring a zesty heat that’ll awaken your taste buds.
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Creamy Indulgence: For an extra rich sauce, incorporate heavy cream alongside the evaporated milk, resulting in a decadently smooth texture.
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Grilled Veggies: Sauté zucchini or bell peppers to serve with your pasta, introducing additional color and flavors to the comforting dish.
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Cheddar Twist: Mix in some shredded cheddar cheese into the pesto for a delightful fusion of flavors that’s truly comforting.
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Pasta Variations: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles to cater to different dietary needs while still enjoying this tasty dish.
How to Store and Freeze Tallarines Verdes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to revive the creamy consistency.
Freezer: The green sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Pour it into freezer-safe bags, flattening them for easier storage. Thaw in the fridge before using.
Pasta Storage: Cooked pasta can be kept in the fridge for 2–3 days in a sealed container; however, it’s best when combined with sauce just before serving to maintain texture.
Reheating: Reheat Tallarines Verdes in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little olive oil or water to help loosen the sauce, ensuring it stays creamy and delicious.
Tallarines Verdes Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting spinach and basil for my Tallarines Verdes?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh spinach leaves that are vibrant and firm, avoiding any that show dark spots or wilting. When it comes to basil, look for bright green, fragrant leaves, as these will pack the most flavorful punch in your pesto.
How do I store leftovers of Tallarines Verdes?
Very! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish again, gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Can I freeze the green sauce for Tallarines Verdes?
Absolutely! The green sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring they’re well-sealed to avoid freezer burn. To use, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before blending it back into your cooked pasta.
What if my pesto sauce is too thick?
No worries! If the sauce turns out too thick, you can easily adjust it. Gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the goal is to have a creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta without being soupy.
Are there any dietary considerations for cooking this recipe?
Yes! If you have dietary restrictions or are preparing meals for pets, it’s important to note that while Tallarines Verdes can be vegetarian-friendly, you may want to avoid using cheese for a vegan option. Additionally, always check for nut allergies when using walnuts. Communicating with your guests about ingredients ensures everyone can enjoy this creamy dish!
What type of pasta works best for Tallarines Verdes?
The more the merrier! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne or fettuccine can add a fun twist to the dish, ensuring that every forkful is delightful. Enjoy experimenting to find your perfect match!
Delicious Tallarines Verdes: Your New Comfort Food Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend the Sauce: Combine spinach, basil, queso, garlic, shallot, walnuts, olive oil, and evaporated milk in a blender. Blend until smooth, adjusting with salt and pepper until the flavors sing.
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Mix the Pasta and Sauce: Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water for later. Return the pasta to the pot and pour in the vibrant green sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated. Add reserved pasta water gradually for a perfect consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the Tallarines Verdes into bowls, garnishing with extra queso fresco and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. Optional: Top with sliced grilled steak for added flavor.