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 recipe has become a favorite for hectic weeknights when I need a satisfying meal made fast without compromising flavor.
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 dish often brings my family together around the table, especially on busy nights when comfort food means the most.
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 This creamy pesto risoni recipe is perfect for quick delicious meals that feel gourmet yet effortless.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best pasta to use for this dish?
Small pasta shapes like risoni (orzo), ditalini, or macaroni work well to hold the creamy pesto sauce.
- → Can I make the pesto cream sauce ahead of time?
It's best to prepare the sauce fresh to preserve its vibrant flavors and creamy texture.
- → How can I adjust the richness of the sauce?
Use half-and-half or light cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
- → What are good accompaniments to serve with this pasta?
Pair with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, shrimp, or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio for a balanced meal.
- → How do toasted pine nuts enhance the dish?
They add a nutty crunch and complement the basil and garlic flavors in the pesto cream sauce.