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Creamy Pasta Pesto Sauce

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Creamy Pasta Pesto Sauce blends fresh basil pesto with rich cream and parmesan for a velvety, herbaceous pasta dish. Quick, comforting, and perfect with a variety of add-ins like grilled chicken or veggies.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest or 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, pine nuts

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly.
  4. Stir in basil pesto and parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest or juice, if using.
  7. Serve warm, topped with parmesan or optional proteins and toppings.

Notes

  • Use plant-based cream and vegan pesto for a dairy-free version.
  • Switch up the pasta shape—fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle work well.
  • Store-bought pesto works great, but choose a high-quality one.
  • Leftovers reheat best on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.
  • Avoid freezing, as the sauce may separate when thawed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/creamy-pasta-pesto-sauce/