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–+ servings
A close-up of a bowl filled with pasta coated in vibrant green pesto sauce, topped with grated cheese and fresh parsley.

Pasta Recipes in 10 Minutes: Weeknight Winner

This recipe offers a quick and delicious pasta dish perfect for busy weeknights. It uses simple ingredients and a fast cooking method to deliver a satisfying meal in under 10 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 20 cloves garlic
  • 20 basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
For the Pasta
  • 1 pound elbow pasta
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 shallot chopped

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Large pot
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Make pesto by combining garlic, basil, salt, pepper, and olive oil in a food processor. Blend until it looks like chunky pesto.
  2. Boil water with salt and add pasta. Cook for 1 minute less than package instructions and save 1/2 cup pasta water.
  3. Drain the pasta and turn heat to medium-high. Add 3 tablespoons oil and the shallot. Mix for 1 minute.
  4. Add the garlic pesto and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Add pasta and pasta water. Stir for a minute to combine, add Parmesan cheese, and enjoy!

Notes

This recipe is designed for speed and simplicity, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and basil to your preference.

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