If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dish, this pesto pasta recipe is the perfect choice. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers a rich, herby taste in just 15 minutes. Plus, it can be served hot or cold, making it a great option for meal prep.
With a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this pesto pasta recipe is ideal for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Whether you use store-bought or homemade pesto, the result is always a delicious, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Pasta Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 15 minutes
- Minimal ingredients – Requires only a few pantry staples
- Versatile – Serve it hot or cold, with or without added protein
- Customizable – Add your favorite ingredients to make it your own
Ingredients for the Perfect Pesto Pasta Recipe
To make this pesto pasta recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) package pasta – Any pasta shape works, but short varieties like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil adds richness
- ½ cup chopped onion – Enhances the flavor with a subtle sweetness
- 2 ½ tablespoons pesto – Store-bought or homemade
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Simple seasonings that enhance the flavors
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for the best taste
Optional Add-ins
- Grilled chicken or shrimp – For added protein
- Cherry tomatoes – Adds a fresh, juicy bite
- Baby spinach – A nutrient boost without changing the taste
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pesto Pasta
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 (usually 8–10 minutes).
- Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
2: Prepare the Pesto Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the pesto, salt, and black pepper. Heat for another minute until warmed through.
3: Combine and Serve
- Pour the pesto mixture over the hot pasta.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and toss well to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Pesto Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Grater
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 a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in pesto, salt, and black pepper. Heat for about a minute.
- Pour the pesto mixture over the pasta and toss with grated Parmesan.
- Serve immediately with extra cheese if desired.
Video
Notes
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Reheat with a splash of olive oil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition
- Calories: 225
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 32g
- Protein: 8g
Pro Tips for the Best Pesto Pasta Recipe
- Salt the pasta water – This enhances the flavor of the pasta itself.
- Use fresh Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well as freshly grated.
- Don’t overheat the pesto – Heat it just enough to combine with the onion; cooking too long can make it bitter.
- Reserve some pasta water – If the sauce feels too thick, adding a splash of pasta water helps create a smooth consistency.
What to Serve With Pesto Pasta
This pesto pasta recipe pairs well with:
- Garlic bread or a side of crusty bread
- A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
If you want to make it a complete meal, adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas makes it even more satisfying.
How to Store and Reheat Pesto Pasta
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–5 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as pesto can lose its vibrant color and fresh flavor.
- Reheating: Warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil to keep it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use any pasta shape for this pesto pasta recipe?
Yes! While short pasta like penne or fusilli holds the sauce well, long pasta like spaghetti or linguine works too.
Is homemade pesto better than store-bought?
Homemade pesto offers a fresher flavor, but high-quality store-bought pesto is a great time-saving alternative.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
What proteins pair well with this pesto pasta?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or chickpeas are all great options to add protein to the dish.
This pesto pasta recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful meal. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it with your favorite add-ins, it’s sure to become a go-to dish in your kitchen. While you are here we have another Deviled Egg Salad Recipe for you.
Try it out, and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. If you love this recipe, share it with friends and family!
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