Pasta with pesto sauce is one of those classic dishes that never goes out of style. But if you’ve ever made pesto pasta and felt like something was off, the issue might not be your pesto—it’s the pasta you’re using. Choosing the right pasta shape can make all the difference in how the sauce clings to the pasta and delivers that bold, fresh flavor in every bite.
In this guide, we’ll break down which pasta shapes pair best with pesto sauce, why it matters, and how to make your pesto dishes even better. Stick with me, and by the end, you’ll know exactly what to serve with your homemade or store-bought pesto.
Why the Pasta Shape Matters for Pesto Sauce
Let’s talk about pesto for a second. Pesto is a raw, herb-based sauce with a thick, oily texture. Unlike tomato sauce or cream-based sauces, pesto doesn’t naturally stick to pasta as easily. Instead, it needs the right pasta shape to hold on to all that basil, garlic, cheese, and oil.
Pasta shapes with ridges, twists, or grooves work best because they trap the pesto sauce, giving you a more flavorful bite. On the flip side, smooth pasta shapes can cause the sauce to slide off, leaving your dish unevenly coated.
Choosing the right pasta isn’t just about tradition—it’s about getting the most out of your pesto sauce.
Best Pasta Shapes for Pesto Sauce
Here’s a breakdown of the best pasta shapes to pair with pesto and why they work so well.
- Fusilli
Fusilli is a corkscrew-shaped pasta that’s practically made for pesto. The spiral ridges catch every bit of sauce, ensuring your pesto clings to the pasta instead of pooling at the bottom of the bowl. It’s a fun, versatile pasta shape that works well for both hot dishes and cold pasta salads.
- Trofie
Trofie is a traditional Ligurian pasta that’s often served with pesto in its home region of Italy. It’s a short, twisted shape that’s perfect for grabbing onto the thick, oily texture of pesto. If you want an authentic Italian pesto dish, trofie is the way to go.
- Linguine
If you prefer a long, sleek pasta, linguine is a great option. Its flat shape allows the pesto to coat each strand evenly. While it doesn’t have the ridges or twists of other pastas, it works well if you toss it thoroughly to ensure the sauce sticks.
- Penne
Penne is one of the most versatile pasta shapes out there. With its ridged exterior and hollow center, penne captures pesto both inside and out. It’s a great choice for baked pesto dishes or when you want a hearty, satisfying pasta meal.
- Cavatappi
Cavatappi, also known as corkscrew pasta, has a similar shape to fusilli but with a tighter twist. Its unique shape makes it ideal for trapping pesto, and it adds a fun visual element to your dish. Plus, it holds up well to other ingredients, like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
- Rigatoni: The ridges on rigatoni help hold pesto sauce, and the larger tubes are great for heartier pesto dishes.
- Farfalle: Also known as bowtie pasta, farfalle works well for cold pesto pasta salads.
Tips for Making the Best Pesto Pasta
Cook Pasta Al Dente
Pasta that’s cooked al dente (firm to the bite) holds sauce better than overcooked pasta. Plus, the slight chewiness of al dente pasta creates a better contrast with the smooth, rich pesto sauce.
Save Some Pasta Water
Before you drain your pasta, save a cup of the starchy cooking water. Adding a splash of pasta water to your pesto can help loosen the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta.
Toss, Don’t Pour
When mixing pesto with pasta, don’t just pour the sauce on top and call it a day. Toss the pasta in the sauce to ensure every piece is evenly coated.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon
A little lemon juice can brighten up the flavors of your pesto pasta, balancing out the richness of the olive oil and cheese.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Since pesto is a raw sauce, fresh ingredients make a huge difference. For the best results, use fresh basil, good-quality Parmesan, and extra virgin olive oil.
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How to Make Store-Bought Pesto Better
Let’s be real—sometimes you just don’t have time to make pesto from scratch. Store-bought pesto can be a lifesaver, but it often needs a little extra love to taste its best. Here’s how to improve it:
- Add Fresh Basil: Boost the herbaceous flavor by mixing in some freshly chopped basil.
- Grate Extra Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese adds a richer, more authentic flavor.
- Drizzle Extra Olive Oil: Store-bought pesto can be too thick. A little olive oil helps smooth it out.
- Squeeze in Lemon Juice: This adds brightness and balances the flavors.
How to Make Your Pesto Creamier
If you’ve ever found your pesto pasta to be a bit dry, you’re not alone. Traditional pesto sauce has a thick, oily consistency that can sometimes feel heavy or clumpy when tossed with pasta. Fortunately, there are a few easy tricks to make your pesto creamier and more luxurious.
- Add Pasta Water: This is the most important step. The starchy water leftover from cooking your pasta helps emulsify the pesto, making it silky and smooth.
- Mix in Ricotta or Cream: For a richer, creamier pesto, stir in a spoonful of ricotta cheese or a splash of heavy cream. This works exceptionally well with long pasta shapes like linguine or bucatini.
- Blend in Avocado: For a dairy-free option, blending half an avocado into your pesto sauce can add creaminess without overpowering the flavors.
How to Serve Pesto Pasta for a Crowd
Pesto pasta isn’t just great for weeknight dinners—it’s also perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s easy to make in large batches, can be served warm or cold, and pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
Here’s how to make pesto pasta a showstopper at your next gathering:
- Use a Sturdy Pasta Shape: Fusilli, rigatoni, or cavatappi are all great options for large portions because they hold up well without getting mushy.
- Make it a Pasta Bar: Set out bowls of add-ins like grilled chicken, shrimp, roasted vegetables, and extra Parmesan. Let guests customize their bowls for a fun, interactive meal.
- Serve it as a Cold Salad: Pesto pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and picnics. Just toss your pasta with pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and toasted pine nuts. Chill before serving.
What Vegetables Pair Well with Pesto Pasta?
If you’re looking to add some veggies to your pesto pasta, here are some great options that pair well with the sauce:
- Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweet, juicy flavor balances the richness of pesto.
- Zucchini: Sliced and sautéed zucchini adds a mild, fresh taste.
- Asparagus: Roasted or grilled asparagus brings an earthy flavor and a nice crunch.
- Peas: Bright green peas add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.
- Spinach: Tossing fresh spinach into hot pasta wilts it slightly without overcooking.
Is Whole Wheat Pasta a Good Match for Pesto?
Yes, whole wheat pasta pairs surprisingly well with pesto sauce. The nutty flavor of whole wheat pasta complements the earthy, garlicky notes in pesto. It’s also a healthier option for those looking to add more fiber to their meals.
That said, whole wheat pasta tends to have a denser texture than regular pasta, so it’s important to cook it properly. Make sure it’s cooked al dente, and reserve a bit of pasta water to loosen the pesto sauce. Fusilli, penne, and cavatappi made from whole wheat flour are excellent choices to pair with pesto.
FAQs About What Pasta Goes Well with Pesto Sauce
Can I use spaghetti with pesto sauce?
Yes, you can use spaghetti with pesto sauce, but it’s not the ideal choice. Since pesto has an oily texture, it tends to slide off smooth pasta shapes like spaghetti. If you do use spaghetti, make sure to toss it thoroughly and add a bit of pasta water to help the sauce stick better. For best results, choose textured pasta like fusilli or penne.
What is the traditional pasta for pesto sauce?
The traditional pasta for pesto sauce is trofie, a short, twisted pasta from Liguria, Italy, where pesto originates. Trofie’s unique shape helps it grab onto the thick pesto sauce, making it the perfect authentic pairing. If you can’t find trofie, orecchiette or fusilli are good alternatives.
Can I make pesto pasta gluten-free?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well with pesto sauce. Look for gluten-free options that are sturdy, like fusilli or penne, to hold the sauce better. Chickpea, lentil, or rice-based pasta are excellent choices for a gluten-free pesto dish.
How do I keep pesto pasta from drying out?
To prevent pesto pasta from drying out, always save some pasta water before draining. Toss the cooked pasta with pesto and add a splash of pasta water to create a creamy, smooth texture. If you’re storing leftovers, mix in olive oil before refrigerating, and reheat gently with additional water or broth.
What proteins go well with pesto pasta?
Pesto pasta pairs well with a variety of proteins, including:
- Grilled Chicken: A classic pairing that works well with the herbaceous flavor of pesto.
- Shrimp: Lightly seasoned shrimp add a coastal twist to pesto pasta.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian option, marinated and pan-fried tofu works great with pesto.
- Chickpeas: A plant-based protein option that adds texture and nutrition.
These proteins add a hearty element to the dish while complementing the bright, herby flavors of the pesto.
Final Thoughts: Picking the Right Pasta for Pesto
Choosing the right pasta for pesto sauce isn’t just about tradition—it’s about making sure every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you prefer the twists of fusilli, the authenticity of trofie, or the elegance of linguine, the right pasta shape can transform your pesto dish from good to unforgettable.
So the next time you’re making pesto pasta, think about your pasta choice. Toss it right, use fresh ingredients, and enjoy a dish that tastes like a little piece of Italy in your kitchen.