Creamy Pesto Pasta
Creamy Pesto Pasta is an irresistible dish that transports you to the Italian countryside with every bite. Featuring twirling strands of pasta enveloped in a rich, vibrant green sauce infused with fresh basil, garlic, and creamy goodness, this recipe is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. Quick and easy to prepare, it offers a delightful blend of flavors that will leave everyone 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 fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water, add pasta, and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve some cooking water before draining.
- Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, blend basil, garlic, and pine nuts until finely chopped. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth.
- Mix in cheese and cream: Stir grated Parmesan and heavy cream into the pesto mixture until combined.
- Combine pasta and pesto: Return drained pasta to the pot over low heat. Add creamy pesto sauce and toss until well coated; adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve immediately: Plate your creamy pesto pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan or pine nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg