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Creamy-pesto-pasta-recipe-with-vibrant-basil-sauce-and-cherry-tomatoes-for-an-easy-Italian-dinner

The Pesto Pasta Recipe I Make When I Don't Want to Think About Dinner

Pesto Pasta Recipe is a quick, flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich basil pesto sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and nuts. Loved for its simplicity and vibrant taste, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual gatherings. It requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to meal for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether served on its own or paired with vegetables, chicken, or seafood, pesto pasta delivers a fresh, satisfying meal packed with herby flavor and comforting texture.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz short pasta — fusilli, casarecce, or penne
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup basil pesto, jarred or homemade
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, but I rarely skip them)
  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan, plus more for serving
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat