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+ servings
Pesto Cream Sauce

Creamy Pesto Sauce: Quick, Bold Flavor for Busy Nights

This Pesto Cream Sauce is a quick and easy way to elevate any meal in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Cooked Pasta Feel free to use any pasta shape, including gluten-free options.
For the Sauce
  • 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil can enhance the flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Grated or minced; garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
  • 3/4 cup Heavy Cream Switch to coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Shredded; nutritional yeast offers a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Pesto Sauce Prepared or homemade; any variety works wonderfully.
  • 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice Fresh lemon juice yields the best taste.
  • Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.

Equipment

  • medium skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: Add 2 cloves of grated or minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the Cream: Pour in 3/4 cup of heavy cream and gently bring it to a low simmer, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Incorporate the Parmesan: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts completely.
  5. Enhance with Pesto and Lemon Juice: Remove from heat and add 1/2 cup of pesto sauce and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, mixing well.
  6. Combine with Pasta: Toss cooked pasta into the skillet to coat with the creamy pesto sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Can be frozen for 2 months.

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