Simple Pesto Pasta

Simple Pesto Pasta – A Quick and Flavorful Dish

Looking for a fast, delicious meal? This Simple Pesto Pasta is packed with flavor and ready in just 15 minutes. Enjoy it hot or cold, with the option to add chicken for extra protein. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Recipe Summary:

• Prep Time: 5 Minutes
• Cook Time: 10 Minutes
• Total Time: 15 Minutes
• Servings: 8

Ingredients:

• 1 (16-ounce) package pasta (your choice)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ cup chopped onion

• 2 ½ tablespoons pesto

• Salt, to taste

• Ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large serving bowl.

Prepare the Pesto Mixture

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until soft and fragrant. Stir in the pesto, salt, and pepper, and heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Combine Pasta and Pesto

Pour the warm pesto mixture over the drained pasta. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and toss again.

Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately, or let it cool for a tasty cold pasta dish.

Enjoy your quick and easy pesto pasta!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes!
✅ Customizable – Add chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – Enjoy hot or cold.
✅ Vegetarian-Friendly – Swap in plant-based Parmesan for a vegan version.
✅ Crowd-Pleaser – Great for potlucks and family dinners.

Chef’s Tips & Variations:

• Make It Creamy – Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the pesto mixture for a richer texture.
• Boost the Flavor – Toss in sun-dried tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, or crumbled feta cheese.
• Protein-Packed – Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra heartiness.
• Add Veggies – Mix in roasted cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for a nutritious touch.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

Perfect Pairings:

Garlic Bread – Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a classic combo.

Fresh Green Salad – A crisp side salad with balsamic vinaigrette pairs beautifully.

Wine Pairing – A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the basil flavor.

Looking for another flavorful pasta dish? Try our Asparagus Pasta Carbonara, which brings the richness of carbonara with a springtime twist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.

Can I add chicken to the pasta?

Yes, adding chicken is a great way to boost the protein content of the dish. You can use grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or sautéed chicken breast, sliced into pieces, and mix it into the pasta.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. It's perfect for meal prep! Simply store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you plan to serve it cold, you can enjoy it as a chilled pasta salad.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this Simple Pesto Pasta is vegetarian as long as you use vegetarian Parmesan cheese. If you're vegan, you can substitute the Parmesan with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.

How can I make the pasta spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto mixture while sautéing the onions, or sprinkle some on top before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While pesto pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a pan with a little olive oil or water to loosen up the sauce.