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–+ servings
Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta

Creamy Pesto Sauce Pasta for Quick Weeknight Bliss

A quick and easy creamy pesto sauce pasta with sautéed vegetables and rich flavors for a delightful weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 300 g Penne Pasta Cooked al dente for best texture.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and crunch.
  • 1 Red Onion Provides mild sweetness.
For the Sauce
  • 6 tablespoons Pesto Sauce Use store-bought or homemade.
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream (35%) Half-and-half can be an alternative.
  • ½ cup Reserved Pasta Water Essential for emulsifying sauce.
  • 1½ tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be substituted.
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano is a great option.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to taste.
For Garnish
  • Freshly Chopped Parsley A lovely garnish.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional) Nutritional yeast can be a vegan option.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add diced green bell pepper and red onion along with 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté for about 10 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in 6 tablespoons of pesto sauce followed by ½ cup of reserved pasta water. Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk 1½ tablespoons of flour with warm water to create a slurry. Combine this with the sauce and slowly add 2 cups of heavy cream.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix thoroughly to adjust seasoning.
  5. Introduce the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss in the creamy sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 12gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of cream or water to maintain creaminess.

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