Save It Cream Cheese Pesto Pasta is a refreshing take on a classic Italian favorite, blending the bold, herbaceous notes of fresh basil with the silky richness of light cream cheese. This dish is designed for those who crave a luxurious, velvety sauce but want a meal that feels bright and energizing. With the crunch of toasted pine nuts and a zing of fresh lemon, it is a sophisticated yet simple meal that comes together in under half an hour.
Save It The secret to the success of this dish is the balance of flavors. The garlic and Parmesan provide a savory foundation, while the lemon juice cuts through the creaminess of the cheese to keep every bite interesting. It is a versatile recipe that works just as well for a quiet weeknight dinner as it does for a casual gathering with friends, proving that you don't need hours in the kitchen to produce a restaurant-quality pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 350 g (12 oz) penne or fusilli
- Salt, for pasta water
- 120 g (4 oz, about 1/2 cup) light cream cheese, softened
- 40 g (1/3 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 40 g (1 cup, loosely packed) fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts, plus extra for garnish
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Extra fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Additional grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Step 2
- While the pasta cooks, add basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan to a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Step 3
- Add the cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy. If needed, add a splash of hot pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Step 4
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add the cream cheese pesto sauce and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce is silky and clings to the pasta.
- Step 5
- Divide among plates. Top with extra pine nuts, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra flavor, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes until golden. This enhances their natural oils and adds a deeper nutty aroma to the finished dish. Additionally, ensuring your cream cheese is softened before blending will guarantee the smoothest possible sauce consistency.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly customizable. You can substitute walnuts or almonds for the pine nuts if desired. For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken. Those with dietary restrictions can easily use certified gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-friendly.
Serviervorschläge
Garnish each plate with a generous amount of fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A final squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can further brighten the flavors. This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a simple side of roasted vegetables.
Save It At 420 calories per serving, this Cream Cheese Pesto Pasta is a balanced meal that provides 14g of protein and a satisfying amount of healthy fats. It’s a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a truly luxurious and memorable dining experience.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The pesto sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Penne and fusilli are ideal as their ridges and curves capture the creamy sauce beautifully. Farfalle, rotini, or gemelli would also work well.
- → Can I use different nuts?
Walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes for pine nuts. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work for nut-free versions while maintaining the crunch.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess.
- → Can I add protein?
Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or pan-seared tofu pair wonderfully. For extra plant protein, stir in white beans or chickpeas.