15-Minute Creamy Pesto Risoni

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

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

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Recipe FAQ

→ What is risoni and can I substitute it?

Risoni, also called orzo, is a small rice-shaped pasta. You can substitute it with ditalini, macaroni, or other small pasta shapes for similar results.

→ How do I achieve a creamy pesto sauce consistency?

Simmering heavy cream with pesto, garlic, and lemon zest, then tossing with pasta water and Parmesan creates a silky, creamy sauce that coats the pasta evenly.

→ Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, replace heavy cream with plant-based alternatives and use vegan Parmesan substitutes. Adjust pesto to ensure it contains no cheese or nuts if needed.

→ How can I add protein to this dish?

Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables during or after preparing the sauce for extra protein and flavor.

→ What wine pairs well with creamy pesto risoni?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the rich, herbal flavors and creamy texture of the dish beautifully.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or thin?

Keep reserved pasta water on hand to adjust the sauce texture; add gradually to reach a silky, smooth consistency without over-thickening.