Description
A quick and comforting one-pot pasta dish with creamy pesto sauce that brings warmth and joy to family dinners.
Ingredients
- 300 g penne pasta (cooked al dente)
- 2 tsp salt (divided)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 1 red onion (diced)
- 6 tbsp pesto sauce
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 2 cups heavy cream (35%)
- 1 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- Freshly chopped parsley (a handful)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Grated Parmesan for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or wide pot over medium heat and add a little oil. Toss in the diced red onion and stir until golden. Add the diced green bell pepper and sauté until soft.
- Lower the heat and add the pesto sauce. Stir to combine and warm for about 30 seconds.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and all-purpose flour until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly as it warms. Add reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce is silky and thick.
- Sprinkle in garlic powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and remaining salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss to combine, adding more reserved pasta water if needed. Cook for 1-2 more minutes.
- Stir in freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Use fresh basil for more brightness and swap garlic powder for fresh if desired. Cook pasta a minute less than package instructions for perfect texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian