This is a great vegetarian pasta option that can be your main dish or a side dish. Add cooked chicken or shrimp if you would like.
1 c. basil pesto
2 T. extra virgin olive oil
¼ c. heavy cream
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
1 lb. pasta, cooked (your choice)
pasta cooking water, reserved
Pesto Sauce:
3 c. fresh basil leaves
1 1/2 c. chopped walnuts
4 cloves garlic, peeled
1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese
1 c. olive oil
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve some pasta cooking water.
Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add pesto; mix in the oil. Stir often till warmed.
When warmed, and a little bubbly, slowly stream in the heavy cream while stirring. (Add more cream if desired.)
Add some cooked pasta water to thin out the sauce to desired consistency, if needed.
Turn heat down and stir to incorporate cream and pesto. Salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with more Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Pesto Sauce: (16 servings)
In a food processor, blend together basil leaves, nuts, garlic, and cheese. Pour in oil slowly while still mixing. Stir in salt and pepper.
Serves 6