Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in minutes? Then look no further! This Costco Pesto Pasta recipe is your answer. Using readily available ingredients from Costco (or your favorite grocery store!), this recipe delivers a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend lunch. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a delicious dish the whole family will love. This healthy meal is also packed with flavor, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Kirkland Signature Rotini Pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 1 (16-ounce) container Kirkland Signature Pesto (or your favorite brand)
- 1 (16-ounce) container Kirkland Signature Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional, for extra freshness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for added richness)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Tomatoes (Optional): While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil (if using) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly softened. This step adds a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor, but can be omitted if you're short on time.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes (or directly to a large bowl if skipping the sauté step). Stir in the pesto, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil (if using).
- Adjust Consistency: If the pasta seems too dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade delicious dish!
Cooking Tips for the Best Costco Pesto Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and less enjoyable.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is crucial! Taste the pasta before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to your liking.
- Fresh basil is best: While not essential, fresh basil adds a wonderful aromatic touch. If you don't have fresh basil on hand, a pinch of dried basil can be substituted.
- Get creative with additions: Feel free to add other ingredients to customize your pasta. Grilled chicken, shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted vegetables would all be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Spicy Pesto Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Creamy Pesto Pasta: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Vegetarian Pesto Pasta: Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a typical serving of this Costco Pesto Pasta recipe contains roughly:
- Calories: 400-500
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 60-70g
This easy and healthy meal is a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a simple yet satisfying lunch. The convenience of using Costco's pre-made pesto and cherry tomatoes makes this recipe incredibly time-efficient, allowing you to enjoy a homemade delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!