Looking for a quick and delicious meal? This Pesto Pasta Recipe is a perfect choice! Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is packed with flavor, making it an ideal dinner option for busy nights. Whether you enjoy it hot or cold, pesto pasta is a versatile meal that can be customized with your favorite proteins and vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Pasta Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Versatile: Serve it hot or cold, and customize it with proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh pesto, Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta is irresistible.
Ingredients for Pesto Pasta Recipe
To make this pesto pasta recipe, you’ll need:
- Pasta: Any shape works, but penne, fusilli, or spaghetti are great choices.
- Olive Oil: Adds a rich flavor and helps coat the pasta.
- Onion: Provides a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Pesto: Use store-bought or homemade for fresh basil goodness.
- Seasonings: A pinch of salt and black pepper enhances the flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best texture and taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Best Pesto Pasta Recipe
1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2: Sauté the Onion
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
3: Prepare the Pesto Mixture
- Stir in pesto, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for an additional minute until warmed through.
4: Combine and Serve
- Add the pesto mixture to the hot pasta and toss well.
- Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pesto Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Frying pan
- Strainer
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 16-ounce package pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 ½ tablespoons pesto
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and transfer to a bowl.
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté onion until softened.
- Stir in pesto, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
- Add pesto mixture to pasta, stir in Parmesan cheese, and toss well.
- Serve and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Add protein like chicken or shrimp for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version.
Nutrition: (Per Serving)
- Calories: 225
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 32g
- Protein: 8g
Pro Tips for the Best Pesto Pasta
- Use Fresh Pesto: Homemade pesto enhances the flavor and freshness.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente for the perfect texture.
- Add Protein: Chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make great additions.
- Extra Veggies: Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms can elevate this dish.
- Save Some Pasta Water: Adding a bit of reserved pasta water helps coat the pasta evenly.
What to Serve with Pesto Pasta
This pesto pasta recipe pairs well with:
- Garlic bread
- A fresh green salad
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Roasted vegetables
How to Store and Reheat Pesto Pasta
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- Freeze: Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make pesto pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the pasta and pesto separately, then mix before serving.
2. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta for a GF version.
3. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
4. Can I add other ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to mix in cooked chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, or pine nuts.
Try This Pesto Pasta Recipe Today!
This pesto pasta recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover! If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a comment below, share it with friends, and don’t forget to tag us on social media.
Enjoy this pesto pasta recipe, and don’t forget to leave a review below! While you are here, why not check Deviled Egg Salad Recipe:.
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