Creamy Pesto Pasta Recipe (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 8 oz (225g) linguine or spaghetti.
02 - 1 1/2 cups fresh basil leaves (40g).
03 - 1/4 cup grated parmesan (20g).
04 - 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts or 1/4 cup cashews.
05 - 1 garlic clove, sliced.
06 - 1/4 teaspoon fine salt.
07 - 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper.
08 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (60ml).
09 - 1/2 cup soft cream cheese (100g).
10 - 1/4 cup pasta water (60ml), plus extra if needed.

# Instructions:

01 - Boil pasta in salted water following package directions. Save 1/2 cup cooking water before draining.
02 - Blend basil, parmesan, nuts, garlic, salt and pepper in food processor until finely chopped.
03 - Slowly add oil while blending until smooth. Add extra oil or water if needed.
04 - Mix cream cheese, pesto and 1/4 cup pasta water in large bowl until smooth.
05 - Add drained pasta to bowl, toss until well coated. Add extra pasta water if needed.

# Notes:

01 - Can use store-bought pesto instead of homemade.
02 - Toast pine nuts in dry pan until light brown.
03 - Keeps in fridge up to 2 days.