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In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like an uphill battle. Enter the 20 Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta - a dish that perfectly embodies the idea of quick, flavorful meals without compromising on quality. This recipe is designed for those who crave a homemade dinner but may not have the luxury of spending hours in the kitchen.

20 Minute Pasta | Creamy, Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta with spinach & shallots

Discover the joy of cooking with this 20 Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta recipe! Perfect for busy evenings, this dish combines fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, basil pesto, and heavy cream to create a rich and flavorful meal in no time. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s packed with nutrients from whole grain pasta and spinach. Say goodbye to bland takeout and bring quick culinary delights to your table with this easy, satisfying pasta dish!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz pasta of choice (linguine or penne works well)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 shallots, finely chopped

3 cups fresh spinach

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

½ cup heavy cream

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

    Sauté Shallots: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.

      Add Tomatoes and Spinach: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened.

        Incorporate Pesto and Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the basil pesto and heavy cream. Mix well to combine.

          Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

            Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

              Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves on top.

                Prep Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4