Name: Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound of your favorite pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine); 2 cups fresh basil leaves, washed and dried; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts; 2 cloves of garlic, peeled; 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

By CozyDelicious April 13, 2012

There's something magical about the combination of creamy sauces and fresh herbs. This Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta recipe brings together the richness of cream with the vibrant flavors of basil to create a deliciously satisfying meal that's perfect for a cozy night in or a special gathering with loved ones.

Prep 15 min
Cook 15 min
Total 30 min
Yield 4 servings
Cuisine Italian
Category Main Course

Regular diet Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta pasta recipe basil pesto creamy pasta Italian pasta

Ingredients

1 pound of your favorite pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
2 cups fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup toasted pine nuts
2 cloves of garlic, peeled
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, then return the pasta to the pot.
In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and a pinch of salt. Pulse the mixture until finely chopped.
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt and pepper.
Heat a separate large skillet over medium heat and add the heavy cream. Let the cream simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the prepared pesto to the cream and stir well to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Pour the creamy basil pesto sauce over the cooked pasta in the pot and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve the Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired, and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size: 1 serving

Calories: 650 kcal
Total Fat: 42 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Cholesterol: 40 mg
Sodium: 350 mg
Total Carbohydrate: 55 g
Dietary Fiber: 4 g
Sugars: 3 g
Protein: 15 g

Rich, creamy, and bursting with the fresh flavors of basil, this Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that will surely become a favorite in your repertoire. It's a wonderful way to elevate a simple pasta dish into something special and impressive without too much effort. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to please and impress!