Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe

User Reviews

5

15 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    5 mins

  • Servings

    4

  • Calories

    501 kcal

  • Course

    Main Course

  • Cuisine

    Italian

Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe

This Easy Pesto Pasta blends linguine tossed with a vibrant green pesto sauce seasoned with salt and black pepper. The pasta is cooked to tender perfection then coated in pesto, with pasta water added to loosen the sauce. It's finished with a generous sprinkling of Pecorino Romano cheese, contributing a sharp, salty contrast. This straightforward approach highlights the fresh herb flavors and creamy texture of the pesto, making it a practical choice for a flavorful yet uncomplicated meal.

Description

Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe showcases linguine combined with a homemade or dried pesto sauce accented simply by salt, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese. The linguine is cooked until al dente and then mixed with pesto and a small amount of reserved pasta water to achieve a smooth coating. The sharpness and saltiness of Pecorino Romano sprinkled on top complement the herbaceous and slightly nutty pesto base.

The method ensures the pasta is seasoned by salting the boiling water adequately and avoids overheating the sauce to prevent separation, preserving the pesto's fresh texture and appearance. This dish can stand on its own or be enhanced with additional vegetables or proteins if desired, offering versatility for various tastes and occasions.

For proper serving, it is recommended to garnish with fresh grated Pecorino Romano cheese and serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its best. Storing pesto and pasta separately can help maintain freshness if preparing ahead. Reheating should be done gently with added water to restore sauciness without breaking the pesto.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 pound linguine homemade or dried
  • 1/3 recipe for pesto
  • Pecorino Romano cheese for garnish
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Add the pasta to a large pot of boiling water and cook according to the package instructions. For fresh, 2-3 minutes and dry 8-10 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta and add to a large bowl and place in the pesto along with a 1/3 cup of the pasta water, salt, and pepper and mix until combined.
  3. Garnish with fresh shredded pecorino Romano cheese and serve.

Notes

  • Salt pasta water well to enhance seasoning and prevent sticking.
  • Keep pesto and pasta separate if preparing a day ahead to keep flavors fresh.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of hot water to maintain sauce consistency and prevent separation.
  • Avoid cooking pesto in a hot pan to prevent the basil from turning oily and sauce breaking.
  • Consider adding cooked vegetables or protein to vary the dish's flavor and texture.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 501kcal (25%) Carbohydrates 86g (29%) Protein 16g (32%) Fat 9g (14%) Saturated Fat 2g (10%) Cholesterol 2mg (1%) Sodium 200mg (8%) Potassium 253mg (5%) Fiber 4g (16%) Sugar 4g (8%) Vitamin A 417IU (8%) Calcium 57mg (6%) Iron 2mg (11%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 501 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 501kcal 25%
Carbohydrates 86g 29%
Protein 16g 32%
Fat 9g 14%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Cholesterol 2mg 1%
Sodium 200mg 8%
Potassium 253mg 5%
Fiber 4g 16%
Sugar 4g 8%
Vitamin A 417IU 8%
Calcium 57mg 6%
Iron 2mg 11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

5

15 reviews
Excellent

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