Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Pesto

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Creamy Pesto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; Salt, for water; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup pine nuts; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rapid Cooking

I absolutely love making Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Pesto! This dish is incredibly quick to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. The combination of the delicate pasta and rich, creamy pesto creates a harmony of flavors that I can't resist. Each bite is a delicious, herbaceous experience, and the vibrant green of the pesto makes the dish visually appealing. Whether it’s for a cozy family meal or a festive gathering, this recipe will surely impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:57:36.162Z

When I first tried making creamy pesto, I was amazed at how simple it was. Using fresh basil and a splash of cream transformed the traditional recipe into something velvety and indulgent. I remember the first time I served it to friends—they couldn’t believe it was homemade!

One tip I learned along the way is to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water acts like magic when mixing with the pesto, allowing it to coat the pasta beautifully. Trust me; you won't want to skip this step!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, herbaceous flavor profile that elevates a simple pasta dish
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
A comforting blend of creamy texture and fresh ingredients

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh basil in the creamy pesto not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the color of your dish. Look for basil with vibrant green leaves, firm stems, and a strong aroma; these traits indicate peak freshness. Avoid any leaves that are wilted or brown, as they can impart a bitter flavor. Fresh ingredients contribute significantly to the overall taste; consider this when selecting your components for the pesto.

Parmesan cheese plays a crucial role in achieving the rich, umami flavor of the creamy pesto. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged versions, as the latter often contains anti-caking agents that can affect both taste and texture. Adding a little more cheese than the recipe calls for can enhance the flavor, but be cautious not to overpower the other ingredients. A balance of flavors is key to a perfect dish.

Pasta Preparation Tips

Angel hair pasta is delicate and cooks quickly, usually in about 4 minutes. To prevent it from becoming mushy, make sure to cook it only until al dente, where it should still have a slight firmness when bitten. Adding a generous amount of salt to the boiling water not only enhances the flavor of the pasta but also helps it to maintain its texture. Remember to taste test a minute before the package indicates to find the ideal consistency.

A common mistake when preparing pasta is forgetting to reserve some of the cooking water before draining. This starchy water is an invaluable tool for adjusting the sauce's consistency later on. If your creamy pesto seems too thick, adding a small amount of this reserved water can help to loosen it while retaining the dish’s flavor. It's a simple yet effective technique that can elevate your final dish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz angel hair pasta
Salt, for water

For the Creamy Pesto

2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 4 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Make the Pesto

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth paste. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

In a large bowl, toss the drained pasta with the creamy pesto. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and pine nuts if desired.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or grilled chicken for extra protein. You can also substitute the pine nuts with walnuts or cashews if needed.

Adjusting the Creaminess

The amount of heavy cream in this recipe can be adjusted based on your preference. If you enjoy a richer sauce, consider increasing the heavy cream up to a cup for an even creamier texture. Similarly, for a lighter version, you can reduce the cream to 1/4 cup. Just remember that any adjustments might affect the sauce's consistency, so be prepared to add a bit of reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired texture.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try substituting the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or coconut milk. These ingredients can provide similar creaminess and richness, but they will slightly alter the flavor profile. When making such substitutions, add them gradually, tasting as you go, until the desired creaminess is achieved.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the visual appeal of your Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Pesto, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan and a few extra pine nuts on top before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice can also add a refreshing brightness that complements the rich flavors of the dish beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, consider garnishing with a few cherry tomatoes or arugula for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the creamy pesto. A chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, can also complement this pasta dish wonderfully. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or seafood to enrich the protein aspect of your dinner. This versatility makes it easy to adapt the meal to your guests' preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought pesto for a quicker option. However, the cream will add a unique twist that makes it richer.

→ How long can I store leftover pesto?

You can store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze creamy pesto?

Yes, creamy pesto can be frozen! Just make sure it is in an airtight container and it can last up to 3 months.

→ What kind of pasta can I use besides angel hair?

You can use any pasta that you prefer! Fusilli, penne, or fettuccine would work well with the creamy pesto.