If you find yourself craving a comforting and flavorful dish that will transport your taste buds to Italy, then look no further than this recipe for Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce. This rich and velvety sauce combines the classic flavors of basil pesto with the lusciousness of cream, creating a dish that is indulgent yet simple to make. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones, this recipe will surely become a household favorite.
**Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound pasta of your choice
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pesto:** In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped.
2. **Slowly Add Olive Oil:** With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth paste. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed to ensure that all ingredients are well combined.
3. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
4. **Make the Creamy Sauce:** In a separate pan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until it simmers gently. Add the pesto mixture to the cream, stirring well to combine.
5. **Combine the Pasta and Sauce:** Once the pasta is cooked, transfer it to the pan with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it is well coated, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. **Season and Serve:** Season the creamy pesto pasta sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
7. **Enjoy:** Dive into a bowl of this luscious Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce and savor the rich flavors of basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese melded with the smooth creaminess of the sauce. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine for a delightful meal that will transport you to the sun-drenched hillsides of Italy.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, this Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce is sure to impress with its luxurious flavors and creamy texture. Experiment with different pasta shapes and varieties to make this dish your own signature creation. Make a batch of this sauce in advance and keep it refrigerated for a quick and satisfying meal anytime. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your pasta game and delight your senses with this decadent dish.
