Pasta with Pesto Sauce 

(A Simple and Flavorful Weeknight Meal)



This classic Italian dish is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with the vibrant flavors of fresh pesto and the comforting texture of pasta, it's a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) dried pasta (such as penne, spaghetti, or rotini)
  • 1 cup prepared pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)


Instructions:


  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried pasta and cook according to package instructions for al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
  • While the pasta is cooking, prepare your pesto sauce. If using store-bought pesto, simply have it ready at hand. If making your own pesto, follow your preferred recipe and ensure it's at room temperature.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You can add a splash of pasta water here if desired, to prevent the oil from burning.
  • Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining. Drain the pasta and immediately transfer it to the hot skillet with olive oil.
  • Add the pesto sauce to the pasta in the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the pesto, ensuring all the strands are well incorporated.
  • Gradually add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to the skillet, tossing constantly, until the sauce reaches a desired consistency. The starchy pasta water helps create a smooth and creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
  • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Remove the skillet from heat and toss one last time.
  • Serve immediately on warmed plates. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few basil leaves, if desired.

Tips:

  • For a richer flavor, reserve a bit of the pasta water before adding the pesto. After tossing the pasta with pesto, gradually add the reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
  • If your pesto sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit more pasta water or a drizzle of olive oil to thin it out.
  • Don't overcook the pasta! Aim for al dente for the best texture.
  • This recipe is easily customizable. You can add other ingredients to the pasta, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or olive oil if needed, to prevent drying out.

Enjoy this quick and delicious Pasta with Pesto Sauce!