Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season liberally with salt. Add pasta to the water and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about eight minutes. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Basil Pesto
Halve the garlic clove and rub its cut side along the inside of your processor. Add basil and pour in about 1/2 cup of the olive oil. Slighlty blend. Add additional olive oil at this time if needed.
Add Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs and salt and pepper. Slighlty blend. With the blender on, slowly pour in ½ cup of ice-cold water, adding more water by the tablespoonful, until the sauce blends smoothly.
Video
Notes
If using homemade pasta, cook time will only be about 3 minutes. Prepare, cook and drain before making your pesto.