How to Make the Perfect Pesto Pasta in a Bowl
Italian · Easy · 9 min · 1 servings
This pesto pasta in a bowl cooks the pasta directly in the microwave making it a no-fuss one-bowl meal ready in minutes. Tossed with vibrant jarred pesto and Parmesan, it is a simple and delicious quick dinner.
Why this recipe works
This Pesto Pasta in a Bowl recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 9 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 460 calories with 16g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 0.75 cup penne or rotini pasta
- 1.5 cups water
- 3 tablespoons jarred basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Combine pasta, water, and salt in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, stir, then microwave for another 2 minutes until pasta is al dente.
Step 2: Drain Excess Water
Carefully drain any remaining water from the bowl using the lid or a strainer, leaving the pasta in the bowl.
Step 3: Toss with Pesto
Immediately add the basil pesto to the hot pasta and toss well to coat every piece evenly.
Step 4: Top and Serve
Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately while the pasta is still hot.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- jarred basil pesto → sun-dried tomato pesto for a richer and deeper flavor
- Parmesan cheese → nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not using a large enough bowl which causes the water to boil over and make a mess in the microwave
- Adding pesto to the pasta before draining which dilutes the flavor with residual cooking water
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 460 calories, 16g protein, 58g carbs, 18g fat, 3g fiber.
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