A bowl of easy pesto pasta topped with fresh basil and pine nuts

Easy Pesto Pasta

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Easy Pesto Pasta is a delicious and quick meal that you can prepare in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss. The homemade basil pesto brings fresh flavors that elevate simple spaghetti into a satisfying dish. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding your favorite ingredients!

how to make Easy Pesto Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 1 recipe homemade basil pesto
  • 12 ounces spaghetti pasta
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

  1. Prepare the pesto according to the recipe, using ⅓ cup olive oil.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
  3. Transfer the pasta to a large skillet. Add the pesto and ½ cup of the reserved starchy pasta water. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water as needed to create a lightly creamy sauce. If desired, gently warm the pasta over low heat.
  4. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste, then serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and plenty of fresh basil leaves.

how to serve Easy Pesto Pasta

Serve Easy Pesto Pasta warm, topped with a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can also sprinkle extra fresh basil leaves on top for added flavor and color. It pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

how to store Easy Pesto Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to bring back some moisture, and warm it gently on the stove.

tips to make Easy Pesto Pasta

  • Use freshly picked basil for the best flavor in your pesto.
  • Adjust the amount of pasta water based on how creamy you want the sauce.
  • Feel free to mix in some vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for added nutrition.
  • For a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes.

variation

You can easily switch up this recipe by using different types of pasta, like penne or fettuccine. You can also try swapping out basil for other herbs such as spinach or arugula for a unique twist. Adding grilled chicken or shrimp can make it more filling too!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, you can use store-bought pesto if you prefer, but homemade typically has a fresher flavor.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can use any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast if you want a vegan option.

Can I make the pesto in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the pesto ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.