Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Pesto

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Pesto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 10 ounces angel hair pasta; Salt, for water; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup pine nuts; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Nourishing Favorites

I adore making Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Pesto because it’s not only quick to prepare, but the vibrant flavors truly elevate any meal. The silky texture of the angel hair combined with the richness of the creamy pesto creates an indulgent dish that feels sophisticated, yet it's remarkably simple. I love that I can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or surprise guests. Pair it with a crisp salad, and you've got a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:10:36.993Z

When I first tried this dish, I was captivated by how quickly I could prepare something that tasted so gourmet. I played around with the pesto ingredients, focusing on a creamy consistency that blends perfectly with the delicate angel hair. The key is to blend the pesto to your preferred texture; I recommend processing it until it's smooth for that delicious creaminess!

This pasta dish stands out not only for its flavor but also for how versatile it is. Whether you're in the mood for veggies, grilled chicken, or shrimp, it can hold up to various additions. Remember to save some pasta water; it’s your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce's thickness!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Lush and creamy pesto sauce enhances delicate flavors.
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for weeknight meals.
Perfectly pairs with vegetables or proteins for a complete dish.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh basil is crucial for achieving that vibrant flavor in your creamy pesto. The fresh leaves offer a fragrant kick that dried herbs simply can't replicate. When you pulse the basil with the other ingredients, look for a bright green color – this indicates freshness and helps create a visually appealing dish. If fresh basil isn't available, you could try a mix of fresh spinach and a touch of dried basil to maintain some of that aromatic quality.

Pine nuts are another key ingredient, lending a delicious nuttiness and creamy texture to the sauce. To enhance their flavor, consider toasting them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning; they should be golden and fragrant. If pine nuts are unavailable, walnuts or sunflower seeds can be used as substitutes, though they will alter the taste slightly.

Perfecting Your Creamy Pesto Sauce

To ensure your creamy pesto sauce comes out perfectly smooth, maintain the right order in your food processor. Begin by processing the basil, nuts, and garlic first until finely chopped. Then, gradually drizzle in the olive oil with the lid open, allowing for a better emulsification. This technique prevents separation and achieves a glossy finish for your sauce. You can adjust the texture by adding more heavy cream or olive oil, depending on your personal preference.

As you season your pesto, remember that the flavor will intensify slightly as it sits. Therefore, taste and adjust the salt and pepper only after mixing in the heavy cream. A dash of lemon juice can also enhance the overall flavor profile, bringing brightness to the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful dish!

For the Pasta

10 ounces angel hair pasta
Salt, for water

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce

2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste

These ingredients combine to create a simple yet delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make an exquisite Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Pesto!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-5 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, drizzle in the olive oil until smooth. Mix in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

In the pot with the drained pasta, add the creamy pesto. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and basil if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For a delightful twist, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or grilled shrimp for additional flavor. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning as per your taste preference!

Serving Suggestions

Angel hair pasta with creamy pesto is incredibly versatile. To make it more substantial, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. These additions not only increase the dish's nutritional value but also enhance its array of flavors and textures.

For serving, I recommend a light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few extra basil leaves for garnish. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add a touch of richness while also elevating the presentation.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the creamy pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may thicken, but you can revive it by gently reheating on low heat and adding a splash of reserved pasta water or more cream.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the creamy pesto in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag and store them for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy a quick serving of creamy pesto anytime you desire, just toss it into freshly cooked pasta for an effortless meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto can save time, just mix it with cream for a similar creamy texture.

→ What can I substitute for pine nuts?

Walnuts or pecans could be great alternatives if you're allergic to pine nuts.

→ How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.

→ Can I add protein to the dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken or shrimp go wonderful with this creamy pesto pasta.