Pesto Pasta Simple and Tasty

Name: Pesto Pasta Simple and Tasty
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 cup Pesto; 8 ounces Pasta; Salt; Pepper; 1/2 cup Parmesan; Pine nuts

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4.9 from 9 votes

Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 15 mins

Tasty

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Cooking Method: Simmering Cuisine: Italian Courses: Dinner, Lunch Recipe Keys:

Pasta

Quick Meals

Vegetarian

Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 4 Calories: 348 Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Pesto pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a quick and easy dinner. It's a versatile meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side salad or some garlic bread. Pesto pasta is an all time favorite that never disappoints.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Add the pasta, pesto and the pasta water to a big bowl. Mix them. Garnish with the parmesan cheese and pine nuts.

Equipment

Tips

Add pasta water to the pesto. The pasta water will help to loosen the pesto and make it easier to coat the pasta.
Don't overcook the pasta. Overcooked pasta will be mushy and will not absorb the sauce well.
Season the pasta to taste. Add salt and pepper to taste.
For a more flavorful pesto, add pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, or garlic.
To make the pesto creamier, add a dollop of mayonnaise or sour cream.
For a healthier option, use whole-wheat pasta or low-fat or fat-free pesto.
You can also add other vegetables to the pesto, such as sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or spinach.

Keywords: pesto, pasta

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Frequently Asked Questions

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How long can pesto pasta last?

Pesto pasta will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze pesto pasta for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, leave the pesto pasta in the fridge overnight and then reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I make pesto pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make pesto pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta according to the package directions and then toss it with pesto sauce. Let the pasta cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop.

How can I make pesto pasta more flavorful?

Add more pine nuts. Pine nuts add a nutty flavor and texture to the pesto.
Add more Parmesan cheese. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami flavor to the pesto.
Add other herbs and spices. You can add other herbs and spices to the pesto, such as garlic, oregano, or parsley.
Add vegetables. You can add vegetables to the pesto, such as sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or spinach.