Pesto Pasta with a Silky Sauce
Toss pasta with pesto and starchy pasta water for a glossy sauce that clings to every strand. Finish with fresh Parmesan.
By Cookin' Kitchen
- Servings: 3 servings
Recipe
Pesto Pasta with a Silky Sauce
Toss pasta with pesto and starchy pasta water for a glossy sauce that clings to every strand. Finish with fresh Parmesan.
Cookin' · https://cookin.club/recipes/pesto-pasta-with-a-silky-sauce
- Servings
- 3
Ingredients
For 3 servings
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Bowl
Instructions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil with the salt.
Step 2: Add the pasta and cook for the time stated on the package.
Step 3: Just before draining, scoop out 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Step 4: Drain the pasta in a colander and leave it for a minute.
Step 5: Transfer the pasta to a bowl; do not use the pasta-cooking pot because it is too hot.
Step 6: Add the pesto and 1/4 cup of pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta, adding more water as needed until it is silky and saucy rather than dry and sticky.
Step 7: Taste and add more salt and pepper if desired.
Step 8: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh Parmesan.
Notes
Pesto and pasta options
Homemade pesto is recommended for the best flavor, but store-bought pesto can also be used; start with 1/2 cup or more, as it may take less than homemade pesto. The method also works with basil, rocket, or spinach pesto.
For a generous pesto coating, use 300 g / 10 oz pasta. The recipe notes suggest up to 350 g / 12 oz for a more standard amount of sauce per serving, and caution against using more pasta with one batch of homemade pesto.
Leftovers
Store leftovers in a very airtight container in the refrigerator. Do not reheat; let the pasta come to room temperature before eating.
About this recipe
Starchy pasta water loosens the pesto and helps it cling to the pasta, making a glossy sauce without adding extra oil. Ziti, penne, and spaghetti are all options.
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