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Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

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A luxurious and comforting pasta dish combining rich pesto with a creamy sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients

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  • 300 g penne pasta (cooked al dente)
  • 2 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1 green bell pepper (diced)
  • 1 red onion (diced)
  • 6 tbsp pesto sauce
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • 2 cups heavy cream (35%)
  • 1½ tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • A handful freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • Grated Parmesan (for topping, optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and toss in the penne pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions—usually about 10-12 minutes will do the trick! Remember to save half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining.
  2. Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the diced green bell pepper and red onion, stirring until they’re soft—about 5 minutes.
  3. Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat and sprinkle in the flour, combining it well with the veggies. Cook for about 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the heavy cream until it’s smooth.
  4. Add the Flavor: Stir in the garlic powder, dried oregano, and the remaining teaspoon of salt. Let it simmer for a few minutes while you stir in the pesto sauce.
  5. Mix in the Pasta: Add your cooked penne to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce until every nook and cranny is coated.
  6. Finish with Freshness: Finally, sprinkle in the black pepper and half of your freshly chopped parsley. Fold it all together one last time.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy pasta hot, topped with extra parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Feel free to personalize the recipe by adding protein or extra vegetables! Adjust seasonings to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta, creamy pesto, weeknight meal, Italian, comfort food

Find it online: https://mapleladle.com/minute-creamy-pesto-pasta-one-pan/