Main Dishes

Veggie Pesto Pasta, Basil Smash Cocktail, and The Girl with the Louding Voice

June 29, 2025
editor
Enjoy a harmonious evening by pairing a delightful plate of Veggie Pesto Pasta with the moving narrative found in "The Girl with the Louding Voice" by Abi Daré. The book's empowering story of resilience and hope mirrors the pasta's vibrant, nourishing flavors. Complement this experience with a refreshing Basil Smash cocktail, echoing the herbal notes of the pesto. This trio creates a sensory journey, blending taste with rich storytelling and a refreshing sip.
Veggie Pesto Pasta

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces pasta (such as fusilli, penne, or spaghetti)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, red bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Combine pasta and pesto: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the basil pesto and toss until the pasta and vegetables are well coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Serve: Divide the veggie pesto pasta among serving plates. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

The Girl with the Louding Voice

The Girl with the Louding Voice

An extraordinary narrative about a Nigerian girl who dreams of education and empowerment, challenging societal norms to achieve her aspirations.
AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER A READ WITH JENNA TODAY SHOW BOOK CLUB PICK! “Brave, fresh . . . unforgettable.”—The New York Times Book Review “A celebration of girls who dare to dream.”—Imbolo Mbue, author of Behold the Dreamers (Oprah’s Book Club pick) Shortlisted for the Desmond Elliott Prize and recommended by The New York Times, Marie Claire, Vogue, Essence, PopSugar, Daily Mail, Electric Literature, Red, Stylist, Daily Kos, Library Journal, The Everygirl, and Read It Forward! The unforgettable, inspiring story of a teenage girl growing up in a rural Nigerian village who longs to get an education so that she can find her “louding voice” and speak up for herself, The Girl with the Louding Voice is a simultaneously heartbreaking and triumphant tale about the power of fighting for your dreams. Despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacles in her path, Adunni never loses sight of her goal of escaping the life of poverty she was born into so that she can build the future she chooses for herself – and help other girls like her do the same. Her spirited determination to find joy and hope in even the most difficult circumstances imaginable will “break your heart and then put it back together again” (Jenna Bush Hager on The Today Show) even as Adunni shows us how one courageous young girl can inspire us all to reach for our dreams…and maybe even change the world.

Discussion Questions

  • How does Adunni's quest for education drive the narrative of the book?
  • In what ways does "The Girl with the Louding Voice" challenge societal norms regarding women's roles?
  • Discuss the significance of language and voice in Adunni's journey.
  • How does Adunni's character evolve throughout the story?
  • Compare Adunni's resilience with other characters in the book.
  • What role do mentors play in Adunni's life?
  • How is poverty depicted in the book, and what impact does it have on the characters?
  • Discuss the relationship between Adunni and her father.
  • How does the environment and setting affect Adunni's experiences?
  • What does the book suggest about the power of dreams and determination?
Authors: Abi Daré
ISBN: 9781524746025
Publisher: Penguin
Published Date: 2020-02-04

Basil Smash Cocktail

Basil Smash Cocktail
The Basil Smash is a refreshing cocktail that complements the flavors of Veggie Pesto Pasta with its crisp, herbal notes and tangy lemon undertones. It's the perfect drink to enhance your evening meal, adding a splash of sophistication and delight to every sip.

Ingredients

  • 10 fresh basil leaves
  • 50ml gin
  • 25ml fresh lemon juice
  • 15ml simple syrup
  • Ice cubes
  • Basil sprig, for garnish

Instructions

  • Muddle the basil leaves in a shaker to release their flavor.
  • Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker, then add ice.
  • Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
  • Garnish with a sprig of basil.