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Simple Pesto Pasta (Fast, Fresh, Foolproof)

This Simple Pesto Pasta is my go‑to 10‑minute comfort meal — fresh basil flavor, silky pesto sauce, and perfectly tender pasta tossed together with Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon. It’s quick, cozy, and ridiculously easy, even on days when the laundry is winning and the houseplants are giving up. Perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or anytime you need a fast, flavorful dish that never fails.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz 225 g pasta of your choice
  • 1/2 cup pesto store‑bought or homemade
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp pine nuts optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon wedge optional, for serving
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Method
 

  1. Boil the pasta in salted water until tender.
  2. Before draining, scoop out 1/4 cup of pasta water and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, mix the pesto with the warm pasta water until smooth.
  4. Add the drained pasta to the pesto mixture and toss until fully coated.
  5. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle Parmesan over the pasta.
  6. Add cherry tomatoes or pine nuts if using.
  7. Season with salt and pepper, then toss again.
  8. Serve with a lemon wedge and fresh basil on top.