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Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta That Melts in Your Mouth

Quick and delicious creamy pesto sauce pasta that transforms a simple meal into a comforting feast.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Penne Pasta Cooked al dente for the perfect bite.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Use sea salt or kosher for great results.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Green Bell Pepper Diced; zucchini or asparagus are great substitutes.
  • 1 small Red Onion Diced; yellow onion can be used for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Pesto Sauce Essential for that authentic taste.
  • 1/2 cup Reserved Pasta Water
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (35%) Use plant-based cream for a lighter alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for a punchier flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Italian seasoning works as an alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Freshly Chopped Parsley Using basil adds more herby notes.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly cracked is preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan (optional) Nutritional yeast serves as a vegan substitute.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced green bell pepper and red onion along with 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
  2. Stir in the pesto sauce and a splash of reserved pasta water into the pan, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together flour with warm water until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the skillet, then add the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes rich and creamy.
  4. Add garlic powder, dried oregano, freshly chopped parsley, and black pepper to the creamy mixture. Adjust seasoning to your preference.
  5. Toss the cooked penne pasta into the creamy sauce, stirring well to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Allow to simmer for another 5 minutes.
  6. Plate your creamy pesto sauce pasta in warm bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and an optional sprinkle of grated Parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Take your time sautéing the vegetables for better flavor development. Reserve pasta water for consistency adjustment in the sauce.

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