Creamy Pesto Pasta
Creamy pesto pasta combines fresh basil, garlic, and a rich cheese sauce for a flavorful, comforting vegetarian dish perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- Drain well and keep warm.
- In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the light cream cheese and cottage cheese until smooth.
- Pour in the dry white wine and cook until slightly reduced, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add dried basil or chopped fresh basil, snipped parsley, and water.
- Mix until well combined and heated through.
- Serve the sauce over the cooked pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade Pesto Sauce With Pine Nuts instead of dried basil. If you're short on time, you can substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture. To add some spice, toss in red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic. Be sure to stir the sauce often to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pesto pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top before serving. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a protein of your choice for a heartier dish. For dessert, consider serving Italian New York Cheesecake to round off your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to loosen the sauce, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Pesto Pasta contains roughly 543 calories, with 17g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (90% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 463mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also work if you're looking for healthier options.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This creamy pesto pasta can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Just prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine when you're ready to eat. It holds up well for a couple of days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this creamy pesto pasta vegan, substitute the light cream cheese and cottage cheese with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream or tofu blended until smooth. Use vegetable broth instead of white wine for added flavor, and ensure your pasta is egg-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).