Are you a pasta lover looking for new and exciting ways to enjoy your favorite dish? Look no further! Pesto pasta is a classic combination that never goes out of style, and when you add some creaminess to the mix, it takes things to a whole new level. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different creamy pesto pasta recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic combinations like basil and pine nuts, to bold and spicy options like sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all easy to make and require minimal ingredients, so you can get creative and start cooking in no time.
In this article, we’ll be diving into each of these 18 creamy pesto pasta recipes, from simple and straightforward options to more complex and adventurous combinations. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for some new ideas, or a meat-lover who wants to try something different, there’s something on this list that’s sure to please.
Classic Basil Pesto Pasta with Pine Nuts
Classic Basil Pesto Pasta with Pine Nuts Recipe
This classic Italian dish is a staple of summer cooking, featuring the bright flavors of basil, garlic, and pine nuts tossed with al dente pasta. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate this delicious and iconic dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until well combined and slightly smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top until the pesto reaches desired consistency.
4. Drain cooked pasta and toss with pesto sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta
A creamy and vibrant twist on traditional pesto pasta, this recipe combines the richness of avocado with the bold flavors of basil and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
3. Add olive oil and blend until well combined.
4. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta with Parmesan
A flavorful and quick pasta dish that combines the richness of parmesan with the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the pesto and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato-pesto mixture.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Walnut Pesto Pasta
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this creamy and nutritious pasta dish, packed with the flavors of spinach, walnuts, and garlic. This recipe is a perfect combination of healthy and indulgent!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor, combine spinach, walnuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Process until smooth, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Toss cooked spaghetti with the pesto sauce, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and vibrant dish, combining the richness of roasted garlic with the brightness of cherry tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 heads of garlic
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Roast the garlic by wrapping it in foil and baking for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a food processor, combine roasted garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper; process until smooth.
5. Add olive oil and process until well combined.
6. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegan Cashew Pesto Pasta
Revitalize your pasta game with this creamy, dreamy vegan cashew pesto recipe! This plant-based twist on the classic Italian dish is quick to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. whole wheat spaghetti
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, basil leaves, nutritional yeast, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the pesto mixture and toss until coated.
5. Serve immediately, with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Pesto Pasta with Grilled Chicken
A vibrant and refreshing twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon zest with the rich flavor of pesto, all wrapped up with tender grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp. freshly made pesto
– 2 tbsp. lemon zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, combine pesto, garlic, and olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and toss to coat.
4. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and grilled chicken in the skillet. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water if needed.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Pesto Pasta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Italy with a spicy kick, perfect for those who like a little heat in their pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/2 cup arrabbiata pesto (see below)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Arrabbiata Pesto:
– 1 cup cooked garlic scapes or cloves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, combine arrabbiata pesto ingredients. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the pan with the arrabbiata pesto and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta Salad with Mozzarella and Olives
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy – creamy pesto, tangy mozzarella, and salty olives – for a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced black olives
– 6 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, and black olives. Toss gently to combine.
3. Arrange mozzarella slices on top of the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Shrimp and Asparagus
A flavorful and colorful pasta dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce, succulent shrimp, and tender asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta, pesto sauce, and reserved pasta water in a large bowl. Toss until well coated.
5. Add cooked shrimp and asparagus to the pasta mixture. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 lb. mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine cooked pasta and pesto sauce. Toss until well coated.
5. Add the roasted vegetables to the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Burrata and Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of burrata, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the classic taste of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 1 ball burrata cheese, crumbled
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto and reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and set aside.
3. Add crumbled burrata cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and toss to combine with the cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, pesto mixture, and cherry tomato-burrata mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss everything together until well coated.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Grilled Salmon
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful combination of grilled salmon and vibrant pesto sauce, all wrapped up in a quick and easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz. each)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto and a splash of pasta cooking water (about 1 tbsp.). Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with pesto sauce.
6. Serve grilled salmon on top of pasta, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Pesto Pasta with Mushrooms and Truffle Oil
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and earthy dish, featuring the bold flavors of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp. truffle oil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in pesto and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the mushroom-pesto mixture.
6. Drizzle truffle oil over the top and toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Sausage and Peppers
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of Italy with the warmth of sausage and roasted peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add sliced peppers to the skillet and continue cooking until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in pesto and olive oil. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sausage-pepper mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Zucchini and Lemon Zest
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh zucchini, lemon zest, and classic pesto sauce to create a light and refreshing summer pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tbsp. pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon zest from 1 lemon (about 1 tsp.)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini slices and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Stir in the pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the zucchini and pesto mixture.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
6. Garnish with lemon zest and parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Artichokes and Olives
A classic Italian dish gets a Mediterranean twist with the addition of artichoke hearts and green olives, creating a flavorful and refreshing pasta dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped artichoke hearts and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
3. Add sliced green olives to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with artichoke mixture.
5. Stir in pesto sauce and add reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Crab Meat and Lemon Butter
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of crab meat with the brightness of lemon butter, all wrapped up in a bed of creamy pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1 lb. jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp. of butter over medium heat. Add crab meat and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and crab meat mixture.
5. Spoon pesto sauce over the top, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Dot the top with remaining 1 tbsp. of butter.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 18 creamy pesto pasta recipes! From classic basil pesto to sun-dried tomato and roasted garlic variations, there’s something for every occasion. Try pairing pesto with grilled chicken or salmon for a protein-packed meal. Or, go vegan with cashew-based pesto and roasted vegetables. These creative combinations also include spicy arrabbiata, shrimp and asparagus, and sausage and peppers options. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something lighter, these recipes are sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
