i have costco pesto pasta recipe
The Best i have costco pesto pasta recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when I don’t have the energy to spend an hour in the kitchen, but it’s also great for casual get-togethers or potlucks because it’s always a hit. The basil in the pesto is loaded with antioxidants, and the olive oil and nuts give it healthy fats that keep you full longer. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, or even some sautéed veggies if you want to bulk it up. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but is actually pretty balanced, and that’s why it’s a staple in our house.
Costco-Inspired Pesto Pasta Salad
A creamy, flavorful pasta salad featuring Costco’s signature pesto, cherry tomatoes, and grilled chicken. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal with minimal effort and maximum taste.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) short pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
- 1 cup Costco Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto (or homemade pesto)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb (450g) grilled chicken breast, diced (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (red or yellow)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly. -
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), pesto, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until smooth and creamy. -
3
Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl with the pesto sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. -
4
Fold in the diced grilled chicken (if using), cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until all ingredients are well combined. -
5
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving. -
6
Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold or at room temperature.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowl (large)
- Colander
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Costco-Inspired Pesto Pasta Salad Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Costco-Inspired Pesto Pasta Salad
1. Can I make Costco pesto pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta and pesto sauce separately up to 2 days in advance. Store the cooked pasta in an airtight container with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, and keep the pesto sauce refrigerated. When ready to serve, gently reheat the pasta with a splash of water or milk, then toss with the pesto. For best texture, avoid microwaving the pesto directly—add it to warm pasta instead.
2. What can I substitute if I don’t have the exact ingredients?
No problem! Here are easy swaps:
– Pasta: Any short pasta (penne, fusilli, farfalle) or long pasta (spaghetti, linguine) works.
– Pesto: Store-bought basil pesto (like Costco’s Kirkland brand) or homemade pesto (blend basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil).
– Pine nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or cashews (toasted for extra flavor).
– Parmesan: Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
– Heavy cream: Half-and-half, whole milk, or a splash of pasta water for creaminess.
3. How do I keep the pesto from turning brown?
Pesto oxidizes when exposed to air, turning brown. To prevent this:
– Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pesto before refrigerating.
– Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top to create a seal.
– Use lemon juice or a pinch of citric acid in the pesto to help preserve its color.
– Store in a small, airtight container to minimize air exposure.
4. Can I freeze the pesto pasta?
Freezing pesto pasta is possible but may change the texture. The sauce can separate or become grainy, and the pasta may turn mushy. For best results:
– Freeze the pesto sauce separately (up to 3 months) and cook fresh pasta when ready to eat.
– If freezing the entire dish, undercook the pasta slightly (al dente) and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently with a splash of liquid.
– Avoid freezing if the recipe includes cream or dairy, as it can curdle.
5. What are some easy add-ins to customize the recipe?
Elevate your pesto pasta with these simple additions:
– Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, Italian sausage, or crispy pancetta.
– Veggies: Cherry tomatoes, roasted zucchini, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms.
– Cheese: Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella pearls.
– Crunch: Toasted breadcrumbs, pine nuts, or walnuts.
– Heat: Red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
– Fresh herbs: Extra basil, parsley, or arugula for brightness.