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Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta That Will Transform Your Dinner Night

This Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients and a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 680
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 300 g penne pasta Cook it just al dente for the best texture.
  • 2 teaspoon salt Divided, to enhance flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 6 tablespoon pesto sauce Use homemade or store-bought.
  • 0.5 cup reserved pasta water Essential for sauce consistency.
  • 2 cups heavy cream (35%) Adds creaminess; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1.5 tablespoon all-purpose flour Helps thicken the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder Can use fresh garlic instead.
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano Italian seasoning works well as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Adjust according to preference.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 green bell pepper (diced) Can swap for any colored bell pepper.
  • 1 red onion (diced) Shallots can be a lovely substitute.
  • a handful Freshly chopped parsley For garnish.
For Serving
  • Grated Parmesan for topping (optional) Consider nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • small bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper, diced red onion, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté for about 10 minutes until softened.
  2. Mix in the pesto sauce and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
  3. Whisk together the flour with a few tablespoons of warm water to create a slurry and stir into the pan. Gradually add the heavy cream, mixing well. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
  4. Stir in garlic powder, dried oregano, chopped parsley, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently in the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Plate the pasta with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top and garnish with extra chopped parsley. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 680kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 15gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze in containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

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