Looking for a quick, delicious way to elevate your pasta dishes? This creamy pesto pasta sauce recipe is the perfect solution! With its rich and flavorful combination of fresh herbs, nuts, and cheese, this sauce will bring a burst of Italian-inspired goodness to your favorite pasta shapes. It’s a simple yet luxurious addition that will impress your family and guests alike. Let’s dive into creating this mouthwatering creamy pesto pasta sauce together!
Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 3 cloves garlic
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/3 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of spice
Instructions:
1. Begin by toasting the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are fragrant and lightly golden brown. This step will enhance the nutty flavor of the pesto sauce. Set the toasted pine nuts aside to cool.
2. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse the mixture a few times until everything is finely chopped and well combined.
3. While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil to create a smooth and creamy paste. This process will help emulsify the oil with the other ingredients, resulting in a cohesive sauce.
4. Next, transfer the prepared pesto mixture to a saucepan over low heat. Add the heavy cream and gently stir to incorporate. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Season the creamy pesto pasta sauce with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra kick, you can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Adjust the seasoning based on your preferences.
6. Meanwhile, cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta, as it can be used to thin out the sauce later if needed.
7. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Pour the prepared creamy pesto sauce over the pasta and toss gently to coat each strand evenly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
8. Serve the creamy pesto pasta hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Delight your taste buds with this sumptuous creamy pesto pasta sauce that brings the essence of Italy right to your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its creamy texture and bold flavors. Try it out today and savor the magic of homemade pesto in a whole new way!
