10 Minutes Cooking > Quick Pasta & Noodles > Quick Pasta Dishes > Pesto pasta

Lemon Pesto Pasta Perfection in 10 Minutes

Whip up a vibrant and flavorful lemon pesto pasta in just 10 minutes! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch. This dish combines the bright flavors of lemon with the richness of pesto, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

Prep Time
2 minutes
Cook Time
8 minutes
Servings
2
Ingredients
  • 200 g Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite)
  • 1/4 cup Prepared Pesto
  • 1 Lemon
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan Cheese (grated)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. This usually takes around 8 minutes.

Prepare the Lemon Pesto Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, zest and juice the lemon. In a small bowl, combine the pesto, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix well.

Combine and Serve

Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Add the pasta to the bowl with the pesto sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: Approximately 180-220 kcal Protein: 6-8g Fat: 8-12g Carbohydrates: 20-25g Note: These values are approximate and depend on the specific ingredients used.

Other Considerations for Nutrition

To make this recipe healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of parmesan cheese. Pesto can be high in fat, so use it in moderation.

← Lemon Garlic Noodles Quick Sesame Peanut Noodles →

FAQ

  • Can I use store-bought pesto?

    Yes, store-bought pesto works great for this recipe. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  • Can I add protein to this dish?

    Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be a delicious addition to this pasta.
  • Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

    Pesto pasta is best served immediately, as the pasta can absorb the sauce over time. If you need to prepare it in advance, consider tossing the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.