Pesto Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 16-ounce package pasta ((spaghetti, linguini, fettuccine, penne, etc.))
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon pepper flakes ((optional))
• 2½-3 tablespoons pesto
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. 1

   Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

2. 2

   In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté. Add the minced garlic and saute for 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

3. 3

   Reduce the heat to low and add the pesto to the pan, stirring well to combine.

4. 4

   Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to coat with the pesto mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of reserved pasta water for the desired consistency.

5. 5

   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.