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–+ servings
A white bowl filled with shell pasta tossed in vibrant green pesto sauce, topped with grated cheese and fresh herbs.

Pasta Recipes in 10 Minutes: Weeknight Winner

This recipe provides a fast pasta dish perfect for busy evenings. When time is short, simple ingredients create a satisfying meal quickly.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
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

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 serve.

Notes

This recipe came together during a busy week using pantry staples. Simple meals often lead to good family moments.

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