How to Make a Delicious Creamy Pasta with Pesto

In this article, we will explore how to prepare creamy pasta with pesto sauce, a simple yet delicious meal that is perfect for those seeking something comforting and rich in flavor. Creamy pasta dishes are beloved by many due to their velvety texture and the unique combination of flavors they offer.

Creamy pasta with pesto is an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or even as part of a picnic lunch. The dish is simple enough to be made quickly but rich in flavor, making it appealing to both beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Ingredients

16 ounces (450 grams) pasta of your choice
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Preparation time: 20 minutes; Cooking time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4-6 people

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by boiling the pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add salt to taste before adding your chosen pasta type. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Making the sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in another pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned.
Add fresh basil and butter: Once the garlic smells delicious, add half of your chopped basil leaves to the pan along with the butter. Allow it to melt into the herbs. Remove from heat once the butter has completely melted.
Mixing the cream and cheese: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Combining all ingredients: Drain your cooked pasta thoroughly, reserving some of the pasta water. Return the drained pasta to its pot or another large mixing bowl. Mix in half of the pesto sauce along with one-fourth cup of reserved pasta water. Toss well so that each strand is coated evenly.
Final touch: Stir in the remaining pesto, adding a little more pasta water if necessary to achieve your desired consistency. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper before serving immediately on plates topped with extra Parmesan for garnish.

Tips & Variations

If you like garlic but are looking to reduce its intensity, consider using roasted garlic instead of raw cloves as it provides a sweeter flavor without overpowering the dish.
For an extra layer of creaminess, use half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream. Both options add richness while keeping the sauce slightly lighter than traditional cream-based recipes.
To make this dish vegan-friendly, replace butter with olive oil and substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast flakes or a vegan pesto made from tahini as a base.

Health Considerations & Nutritional Information

This creamy pasta recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Fresh basil packed with antioxidants, vitamin K, manganese, and folate complements the protein found in your favorite pasta type. Additionally, Parmesan cheese offers calcium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, and niacin. However, keep portions mindful if you are watching your weight or cholesterol levels since this dish is calorie-dense.

Calories per serving: Approximately 650 calories (per person)

Total fat: ~48 grams
Saturated Fat: ~20 grams
Carbohydrates: ~73 grams
Fiber: ~11 grams
Protein: ~29 grams
Sodium: ~650 milligrams

Conclusion

Creamy pasta with pesto is a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit various dietary preferences and needs. Whether you're looking for something simple yet satisfying or experimenting with new flavors, this recipe provides endless possibilities while delivering exceptional taste every time.

To summarize, creamy pasta with pesto is more than just another pasta dish; it's an invitation to explore the delightful world of Mediterranean cuisine at home. With minimal effort and maximum satisfaction, you can impress your family and friends with this versatile and delectable recipe.