Homemade Creamy Pesto with Linguine Recipe
Creamy pesto paired with linguine is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines the fresh, herbaceous flavors of basil pesto with the richness of cream. This recipe is easy to make yet sophisticated, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The creamy pesto sauce clings to the strands of linguine, creating a mouthwatering meal that bursts with vibrant flavors. Follow the steps below to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients:
For the Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a more budget-friendly option)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)
For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:
- 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (additional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Linguine:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- Salt (for pasta water)
Optional Add-ins:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Roasted cherry tomatoes
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Toasted pine nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pesto:
Making pesto from scratch is surprisingly easy and adds a ton of fresh flavor to this dish.
- Toast the Pine Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts (or walnuts) until they turn golden brown, around 3-4 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning. This step brings out the nutty flavor.
- Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse several times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
- Add Olive Oil: While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Blend until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency. You can adjust the thickness by adding more olive oil if needed.
- Season: Taste and season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Set the pesto aside.
2. Cook the Linguine:
Properly cooked pasta is key to the success of this dish.
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help emulsify the creamy pesto sauce and create a silky texture.
- Drain: Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce:
The creamy element takes this pesto dish to the next level, providing richness without overwhelming the fresh basil flavor.
- Heat Cream: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add the heavy cream or half-and-half and gently heat it through. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Add Pesto: Once the cream is warmed, stir in 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the fresh pesto (adjust according to taste). Mix until the pesto is fully incorporated into the cream, creating a smooth, green sauce.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the additional 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This helps thicken the sauce and intensify the flavor.
- Butter (Optional): If you want an even richer sauce, stir in the butter until melted.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Toss the Linguine: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Use tongs or a pasta fork to toss the pasta, ensuring that every strand is coated in the sauce.
- Use Pasta Water: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The starchy water will help bind the sauce to the pasta, giving it a luxurious texture.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy pesto linguine is ready to serve!
- Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and toasted pine nuts. You can also add fresh basil leaves for color.
- Optional Add-ins: For a heartier meal, top the linguine with grilled chicken, shrimp, roasted cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms. The combination of creamy pesto and tender meat or vegetables is divine.
Tips and Variations:
- Pesto Storage: Any leftover pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To prevent browning, add a thin layer of olive oil on top of the pesto before storing.
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, but to make it vegan, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Use Different Herbs: If you don’t have enough basil, you can mix in other herbs like parsley or spinach for a unique twist on traditional pesto.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the regular linguine for gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion:
Creamy pesto linguine is a versatile dish that balances the freshness of basil pesto with the indulgence of cream. Whether served as a main course with chicken or shrimp or as a comforting vegetarian meal, this dish will impress your family and friends. With just a few simple steps, you can create a luxurious pasta that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. Enjoy this creamy pesto linguine with a glass of white wine or a light salad for a complete and satisfying meal!