Inspired by: @iszy
Discovering new pasta shapes can be incredibly exciting, especially when you find something as unique as Trofie! Originating from the beautiful Liguria region of Northern Italy, Trofie pasta is a distinctive, twisted shape that's perfect for holding rich sauces. While its delicate appearance might make you wonder if it can stand up to hearty ingredients, Trofie is surprisingly robust, offering a satisfying texture in every bite.
This recipe celebrates Trofie's traditional roots, pairing it with a vibrant, dairy-free pesto, tender green beans, and soft potatoes. It's a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings the authentic taste of Ligurian vegan cuisine right to your kitchen. Whether you're a long-time vegan, exploring plant-based meals, or just curious about unique Italian pasta, this easy recipe is designed for you.
What is Trofie Pasta?
Trofie pasta hails from Liguria, Italy, a region famous for its pesto. The name "Trofie" is thought to come from the Ligurian word "strufuggiâ," meaning "to rub," referring to the traditional hand-rolling method used to create its characteristic twisted shape. This rustic pasta is celebrated for its ability to cling to sauces, making it an ideal choice for a classic pesto dish. Its firm texture ensures it holds up beautifully when mixed with other ingredients, providing a delightful culinary experience.
Why You'll Love This Vegan Trofie Pesto Recipe
This recipe isn't just about cooking pasta; it's about enjoying a quick, healthy, and genuinely authentic Italian meal that's entirely plant-based. It's perfect for:
- Quick Weeknight Dinners: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Exploring New Flavors: Experience a traditional Ligurian dish with a vegan twist.
- Healthy & Wholesome Eating: Packed with fresh vegetables and plant-based goodness.
- Dairy-Free & Delicious: A creamy, flavorful pesto without any dairy.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to create this delightful vegan Trofie pasta dish:
For the Vegan Basil Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 2-3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons water (optional, for blending)
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz (340g) Trofie pasta (or other short, sturdy pasta like orecchiette pasta or penne pasta)
- 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1-2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- Salt for pasta water
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Food processor or blender for pesto
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl or serving bowl
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious vegan Trofie pasta:
- Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, nutritional yeast (if using), salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped. Gradually stream in the extra virgin olive oil while blending until a smooth, vibrant pesto forms. Add a tablespoon or two of water if needed to achieve desired consistency. Set aside.
- Cook Pasta and Vegetables: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 5 minutes. Then, add the green beans and the Trofie pasta to the same pot. Cook according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the vegetables are tender.
- Combine: Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta, potatoes, and green beans thoroughly. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Mix and Serve: Add the prepared vegan pesto to the hot pasta and vegetables. Toss well to coat everything evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations & Adaptations
This versatile recipe can be easily adapted to your taste and pantry!
- Pesto Power-Ups:
- Nut-Free Pesto: Substitute pine nuts with sunflower seeds or roasted pumpkin seeds for a delicious, allergy-friendly alternative.
- Herb Variations: Try adding a handful of spinach or arugula to your pesto for extra greens and a slightly different flavor profile.
- Vary Your Veggies:
- Add roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or blanched broccoli florets for more texture and nutrients.
- Swap green beans for asparagus when in season.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta instead of durum wheat Trofie. The cooking method remains the same.
- Protein Boost: Stir in some baked firm tofu cubes or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
Expert Tips for Perfect Vegan Pesto Trofie
- Don't Overcook: Trofie is best al dente! Keep an eye on it to ensure it retains its delightful chewiness, as this rustic pasta holds its shape well.
- The Magic of Pasta Water: The reserved starchy pasta water is your secret weapon. It helps the pesto emulsify and cling to the pasta, creating a richer, smoother sauce.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your pesto before mixing. Adjust salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness and balance.
- Cheesy Alternative: For an extra "cheesy" plant-based flavor, the nutritional yeast in the pesto is key. You can also sprinkle a bit more on top when serving, or blend a quick vegan Parmesan alternative using almond flour and nutritional yeast.
Related Articles
Looking for more delicious vegan recipes? Explore these other fantastic dishes on abillion:
- Vegan Pesto Greens Bowl Recipe - Discover another way to enjoy vibrant pesto!
- Vegan No-Tuna Pasta Salad: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe - A great option for a lighter, summery pasta dish.
- Easy Vegan Lasagna for Two - Craving more comforting Italian flavors?
- How to make your own vegan pasta at home - Take your pasta journey to the next level!
- Red Lentil Pasta and Jackfruit Meatballs Recipe - Another hearty pasta meal idea.
- Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Pasta Recipe - Perfect for cozy, autumnal meals.
Enjoy this taste of Liguria with this wholesome and easy vegan Trofie pasta!
Share Your Creations!
We hope you love this authentic vegan Trofie pasta with pesto as much as we do. If you try this recipe, share your photos and reviews on abillion! We'd love to see your delicious plant-based creations.
