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–+ servings
Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

Delicious Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta in Just 20 Minutes

This Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta is a quick, one-pot recipe ideal for busy nights, offering a delightful and gourmet experience in just 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne Pasta Gluten-free option available.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (divided) Adjust to taste.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Green Bell Pepper Can substitute with zucchini.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Yellow onion can be used.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Pesto Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • ½ cup Reserved Pasta Water Can use vegetable broth.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (35%) For a lighter version, use half-and-half.
  • 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour Cornstarch for gluten-free.
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can enhance flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be a substitute.
  • to taste Black Pepper Red pepper flakes for heat.
  • ¼ cup Grated Parmesan (optional) Nutritional yeast for vegan option.
For the Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chopped; basil can be used.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add diced green bell pepper and red onion with 1 teaspoon of salt, cooking for 10 minutes.
  2. Stir in pesto sauce and reserved pasta water into the skillet, allowing it to simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together flour and warm water until smooth. Slowly add to the skillet, stirring well. Mix in heavy cream and simmer until thickened.
  4. Add garlic powder, oregano, and black pepper to taste, stirring to combine.
  5. Toss the cooked penne pasta with the creamy sauce, allowing to simmer for another 5 minutes.
  6. Plate the pasta, garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 320mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, cook pasta al dente and sauté vegetables thoroughly. Reserve extra pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

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