Are you craving a restaurant-quality pasta dish but short on time and effort? Look no further! This Knorr Creamy Pesto Pasta recipe delivers incredible flavor and creamy texture in a fraction of the time it takes to make pesto from scratch. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients and a few clever techniques can create a truly delicious and satisfying healthy meal. This easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or a casual weekend lunch – it's a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 (1.75 ounce) package Knorr Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional, for extra freshness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Pesto Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the Knorr Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce and heavy cream. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and heated through. Do not boil.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil (if using). If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired. This quick dinner idea is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a perfect dish. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and ruin the texture.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste. Fresh basil, good Parmesan cheese, and high-fat heavy cream will make a noticeable difference.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Add some protein: Boost the protein content of this meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Variations:
- Spicy Pesto Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Vegetarian Pesto Pasta: Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Sun-dried Tomato Pesto Pasta: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for fresh basil for a richer, more intense flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 10-15 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
This Knorr Creamy Pesto Pasta recipe is a fantastic example of a delicious and easy recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible to even the most novice home cooks. Enjoy this homemade cooking experience and impress your family and friends with this tasty and satisfying dish!