Imagine a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that comes together in no time – that’s exactly what Pizza Express Pesto Pasta offers. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of pesto sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts creates a burst of Italian flavors that will delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe.
**Pizza Express Pesto Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
– 1/2 cup basil pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. **Prepare the Pesto Mixture:** In a large skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn them. Remove the pine nuts from the skillet and set aside.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In the same skillet over low heat, add the pesto sauce and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir to combine and warm through for about 1-2 minutes.
4. **Add the Pasta:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pesto mixture. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. **Finish the Dish:** Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the pasta and give it a final toss. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Serve:** Transfer the Pizza Express Pesto Pasta to serving plates. Top each portion with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy this delicious Pizza Express Pesto Pasta with your family or friends for a cozy night in or a quick dinner option that doesn’t skimp on taste. The vibrant colors and bold flavors of this dish make it a standout, and the best part is, it’s so simple to make! Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
