Save A quick and comforting pasta dish featuring orzo (risoni) tossed in a rich, garlicky pesto cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful vegetarian meal.
This has become my go-to weeknight dinner when I want something satisfying yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (1½ cups) risoni (orzo) pasta
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 200 ml (¾ cup plus 2 tbsp) heavy cream, 100 g (about ½ cup) basil pesto (store-bought or homemade), 50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, zest of ½ lemon, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts, fresh basil leaves to serve, extra grated Parmesan to serve
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook risoni according to package instructions until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water then drain.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the pesto and lemon zest. Cook for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
- Step 4:
- Add the drained risoni Parmesan cheese and ¼ cup reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to combine adding more pasta water as needed for a silky creamy sauce.
- Step 5:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Step 6:
- Serve topped with toasted pine nuts fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Save This recipe always brings the family together at dinner time with smiles all around.
Required Tools
Large pot skillet colander wooden spoon microplane or grater
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (risoni/orzo) milk (cream Parmesan pesto) and nuts (pesto pine nuts) Check pesto ingredients for additional allergens (e.g. cashews other nuts cheese) Always verify labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories 540 Total Fat 26 g Carbohydrates 57 g Protein 16 g per serving
Save Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this creamy pesto risoni for a quick and delightful meal any night.
Recipe FAQ
- → What is the best pasta type for this dish?
Risoni, also known as orzo, works perfectly due to its small, rice-like shape that holds the creamy sauce well.
- → Can I use homemade pesto for this dish?
Absolutely, homemade basil pesto adds freshness and depth, but store-bought pesto works well for convenience.
- → How do I get a creamy sauce without it separating?
Simmer the cream gently with pesto and garlic, and gradually toss in the pasta with reserved cooking water for a smooth, silky finish.
- → What can I add to enhance protein content?
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables to increase protein and add variety.
- → Are there suitable alternatives to heavy cream?
Light cream or half-and-half can be used for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.