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 creamy pesto risoni has become my go-to when I need something fast yet satisfying on a busy evening.
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 recipe is a family favorite that always brings smiles at the dinner table.
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
Save This creamy pesto risoni is an easy dish that feels special any night of the week.
Recipe Guide
- → What is risoni and can it be substituted?
Risoni, also known as orzo, is a small rice-shaped pasta. It can be replaced with similar small pasta shapes like ditalini or macaroni for different textures.
- → How can I make the sauce lighter?
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or light cream to create a lighter, less rich sauce without sacrificing flavor.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, cooked chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables can be added to enhance the dish with extra protein and variety.
- → What is the best way to retain creaminess when reheating?
Gently reheat on low heat and add a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to maintain a silky sauce texture.
- → Which wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio complements the creamy, herbaceous flavors perfectly.