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Lemon Pesto Pasta

Lemon Pesto Pasta Recipe

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 610
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb dried pasta
  • 1 cup prepared basil pesto
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
  • Salt and fresh black pepper
  • Small handful fresh basil leaves

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. While the pasta cooks, warm the pesto, cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes.
  3. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss with the sauce and Parmesan, adding splashes of pasta water until the sauce is silky.
  4. Divide among bowls, tear basil over the top, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan.

Notes

The sauce thickens quickly off the heat, so keep a cup of pasta water nearby while tossing. If the pesto is very oily, stir it well before measuring. Leftovers hold well for a few days with a gentle reheat.