Discover the joy of a swift and delightful pesto penne pasta – a light and uncomplicated Italian creation that comes together with just five ingredients in under 15 minutes. Cooked pasta springs to life as it dances with vibrant pesto, plump cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This dish is a true gem for a hassle-free weeknight dinner. And guess what? Any leftovers get a new lease on life when enjoyed cold as a refreshing pasta salad for a delightful lunch the next day.
Let’s talk about simplicity and speed – pesto penne pasta takes the crown in both categories. It’s practically a magic trick in the kitchen, and it’s one of those recipes you’ll pull out time and again when time is short. And hey, if you’re all about keeping it fast and fabulous, you’ll also adore these pasta wonders that boast prep and cook times of less than 20 minutes: the timeless Spaghetti Carbonara, the Avocado Basil Pesto Spaghetti, the comforting Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar, and the luxurious Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Bake.
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So, let’s embrace the beauty of simplicity with pesto penne pasta. A culinary masterpiece that proves the magic of cooking can happen in a jiffy. The result? A plate of pasta that’s a symphony of Flavors and textures, perfect for a relaxed dinner. And the bonus? It transforms into a refreshing pasta salad that’s ready to shine in your lunchbox the next day.
Recipe Video:
Tools for this recipe
Ingredients and Instructions of Pesto Penne Pasta :
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340g) penne pasta
- 2 cups (80g) fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts (40g)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup (120ml) extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup (60g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a kick)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta
- Bring a big pan of water to a boil over high heat.
- Add generous pinch to the boiling water.
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until it is al dente.
- Cook the pasta and side it.
2. Prepare the Pesto
- In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts or walnuts, peeled garlic cloves, salt, and black pepper.
- Pulse the ingredients a few times until they’re coarsely chopped.
3. Add the Olive Oil:
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly blended.
- If you want a bit of heat, you can also add the red pepper flakes at this point.
4. Combine Pasta and Pesto
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and the prepared pesto.
- Toss the pasta gently to ensure it’s evenly coated with the pesto.
5. Add Freshness:
- Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes. Their juicy sweetness will add a burst of flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Portion the Pesto Penne Pasta onto plates.
- If desired, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added Savory touch.
7. Savor the Moment
- Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and inviting aroma of your Pesto Penne Pasta.
- Each forkful combines the earthiness of basil, the creaminess of Parmesan, and the nutty richness of pine nuts.
This Pesto Penne Pasta is an ode to simple elegance. Its fresh and vibrant Flavors are a testament to how a handful of quality ingredients can create a delightful and memorable dish. Enjoy it as a satisfying meal on its own or as a lovely side paired with your favorite protein.
Nutrition Facts of Pesto Penne Pasta(Per Serving):
| Serving Size | 1 portion of Pesto Penne Pasta |
| Calories | ~500 kcal |
| Total Fat | 40g |
| – Saturated Fat | 7g |
| – Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| – Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 10g |
Note: Nutritional values are estimated and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.
Health Benefits:
- Rich in heart-healthy fats from extra-virgin olive oil.
- Good source of antioxidants from fresh basil and tomatoes.
- Provides essential nutrients like calcium from Parmesan cheese.
- Moderate protein content for muscle maintenance.
Storage, Reheat and Serving instructions of Pesto Penne Pasta
Storage of Pesto Penne Pasta:
Any remaining Pesto Penne Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheat Instructions:
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a pan on the stovetop. If you prefer it cold, enjoy it straight from the fridge as a refreshing pasta salad.
Serving Tip:
Sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an added savory touch. This Pesto Penne Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that’s sure to brighten your day.
FAQ’s
Q. How do you make pesto penne pasta?
Cook penne until al dente and drain. Toss the pasta with fresh basil pesto, a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You can also add cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or veggies for extra flavor.
Q. Can I use store-bought pesto for pesto penne pasta?
Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly if you’re short on time. Look for high-quality brands with simple ingredients like basil, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan.
Q. What protein can I add to pesto penne pasta?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sliced Italian sausage pair well. For vegetarian options, add chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.
Q. Can pesto penne pasta be made dairy-free?
Definitely, Use a dairy-free pesto (made with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan) and skip any added cheese. It’s just as delicious and creamy.
Q. How do I prevent the pesto from drying out?
Save a little pasta cooking water and mix it into the pesto when tossing with the pasta. This keeps the dish moist and helps the sauce coat the penne evenly.
Q. What side dishes go well with pesto penne pasta?
A simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus complement the fresh flavors of pesto penne pasta beautifully.
MORE RECIPES FOR PASTA
- Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti)
- Spinach Sausage Lasagna
- Baked Spaghetti
- Tagliatelle Pasta
- Spaghetti Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms
