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 boiling water; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup pine nuts; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup olive oil

Highlighted under: International Plates

I absolutely love making Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Pesto for a quick yet delicious meal. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it brings together the lightness of angel hair pasta with the rich, vibrant flavors of homemade pesto. In just 20 minutes, I can whip up a delectable dinner that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The creaminess of the pesto transforms each bite into a delightful experience, whether I'm cooking for family or entertaining friends.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:52:48.826Z

When I first tried making creamy pesto, I was skeptical about its richness overpowering the pasta. However, I soon learned the perfect balance by adding just the right amount of cream to the pesto. This method creates a deliciously creamy coating that enhances the flavor of each strand of angel hair without weighing it down. Additionally, I like to toss in some freshly grated Parmesan for a little extra depth.

Another tip I've discovered over time is to cook the pasta to al dente. This ensures each bite maintains a pleasant texture. Trust me; the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, making each mouthful a delightful experience. I've shared it with numerous friends, and they've all raved about how easy yet elegant it feels.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and effortless preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Rich and creamy flavors that elevate simple ingredients
Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables

Mastering the Pesto

When making the creamy pesto, the freshness of the basil is crucial. Using vibrant green leaves will provide a bright flavor, while wilted or brown leaves can result in a dull taste. Make sure to wash and dry the basil thoroughly before adding it to the food processor to ensure your pesto remains smooth and avoids excess moisture. I recommend using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil, as its rich flavor significantly enhances the overall profile of the dish.

Pulse the ingredients in the food processor until finely chopped but not puréed. It's a mistake to rush this step; you want the textures of the nuts and cheese to remain slightly chunky, adding a delightful bite to the creamy sauce. Depending on the power of your food processor, it may take 20 to 30 seconds to achieve the perfect consistency. If it feels too thick, add a little more olive oil or cream gradually while pulsing.

Perfecting Your Pasta

Cooking angel hair pasta requires attention to timing. Because of its thinness, it can go from perfectly al dente to mushy in a matter of moments—typically around 3 to 4 minutes. Once it's ready, drain the pasta and reserve a cup of the cooking water. This starchy water can be a fantastic addition when mixing in the pesto; it helps bind the sauce and gives it that luscious, creamy feel.

If you're feeling adventurous, this recipe lends itself well to variations. You can experiment by adding roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or shrimp to the pasta. These ingredients not only add protein but also enhance the dish's textural contrast. Consider sautéing some cherry tomatoes or zucchini until tender and then tossing them in at the end for a fresh pop of flavor and color in your creamy pesto pasta.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz angel hair pasta
Salt, for boiling water

For the Creamy Pesto

1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, add the heavy cream and pulse again until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the creamy pesto until fully coated. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve immediately. Garnish with additional Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding sautéed cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken to the pasta before serving. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful visual appeal to the dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the creamy pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the pasta from sticking, consider tossing it with a little extra olive oil before sealing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat to prevent it from becoming gummy. You can add a splash of water or additional cream to revive the sauce as it heats.

Freezing is not recommended for this dish, especially due to the heavy cream in the pesto. Cream-based sauces often experience separation upon thawing, leading to an unappealing texture. If you’d like to make this dish ahead of time, I suggest preparing the pesto separately and storing it in the fridge. Then, cook the pasta fresh on the day you plan to serve it.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful twist, consider garnishing your Angel Hair Pasta with Creamy Pesto with toasted nuts or a sprinkle of lemon zest. The brightness of the lemon zest pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the pesto, creating a balanced experience on the palate. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or additional basil to enhance the presentation and freshness.

To elevate this dish further for entertaining, serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the vinaigrette will provide a lovely counterpoint to the creamy richness of the pasta, making it a well-rounded meal. For a complete dining experience, pair the dish with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which beautifully complements the basil and cream.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair is lighter, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.

→ How can I store leftover creamy pesto?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet, if strict vegetarian.

→ Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pesto in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you're ready to mix it with the pasta.