Creamy Pesto Sauce
Indulge in a creamy pesto sauce that’s a delightful marriage of fresh basil, rich cream, and nutty parmesan. This versatile sauce elevates any pasta dish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With its vibrant green hue and explosion of flavors, each bite promises a taste of Italy right at your dinner table. Create lasting memories with this easy-to-make recipe that will have your friends and family asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or zoodles)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add pasta, and cook until al dente as per package instructions.
- 2. Make the pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, and parmesan; blend until finely chopped.
- 3. Add creaminess: While blending, gradually add olive oil until smooth. Stir in heavy cream until incorporated.
- 4. Combine: Drain cooked pasta (reserve some water) and mix with pesto in a bowl. Toss well until coated; adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
- 5. Season: Taste and add salt and pepper as preferred. Serve garnished with extra parmesan or pine nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg