Creamy Pesto Pasta
Creamy pesto pasta is a delightful dish that combines the fresh flavors of basil and garlic with rich creaminess, creating an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, impressing family and friends alike. With its vibrant green hue and luxurious texture, this creamy pesto pasta is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- 2. Make the pesto sauce: In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. Blend until smooth but slightly chunky.
- 3. Add cream: Gradually incorporate heavy cream while blending until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 4. Combine: Toss the drained pasta with the creamy pesto sauce in a large bowl. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- 5. Serve: Plate with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves; enjoy immediately!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg