Creamy Lemon Pesto Pasta

If you’re looking for a dish that strikes the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and zesty freshness, look no further than Creamy Lemon Pesto Pasta. This delightful culinary creation brings together the rich, comforting texture of a creamy sauce with the vibrant, bright notes of lemon and fresh basil. It’s a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a feast for the eyes, making it an ideal centerpiece for both casual weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

Discover the delightful combination of creamy indulgence and zesty freshness with this Creamy Lemon Pesto Pasta recipe. This easy-to-follow guide walks you through selecting the perfect pasta, making homemade pesto with fresh basil, and crafting a luxurious creamy sauce. Each bite bursts with vibrant flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Elevate your cooking game and impress your guests with this standout dish that’s both nutritious and visually appealing!

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Ingredients

12 oz (340g) pasta of choice (fettuccine or linguine work well)

1 cup fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

1 cup heavy cream

Salt and pepper to taste

Extra Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil, pine nuts, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper to taste, then pulse once more to combine.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the prepared pesto and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss well over low heat until the pasta is evenly coated and warmed through.

Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. For an extra touch, drizzle a little more olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest on top.

Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this creamy lemon pesto pasta!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings