1. Can I make jalapeno pesto pasta less spicy?

Yes! To reduce the heat, deseed the jalapeños completely before blending. You can also replace one jalapeño with a mild green pepper for a gentler flavor without losing the vibrant color.

2. What kind of pasta works best for jalapeno pesto?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best because their ridges and twists hold the creamy sauce beautifully. However, spaghetti or linguine can also be used if you prefer long noodles.

3. Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Absolutely. The jalapeno pesto can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation and preserve the bright green color.

4. Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is vegetarian as written, but you can easily make it vegan by replacing parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and using plant-based milk instead of dairy.

5. What can I serve with jalapeno pesto pasta?

It pairs perfectly with garlic bread, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables. For variety, serve it alongside a chilled Mediterranean pasta salad recipe

6. Can I skip the baking step?

Yes. Baking adds a crunchy breadcrumb topping, but if you’re short on time, you can serve it straight from the pan. It’ll still be creamy, flavorful, and delicious.

7. How do I store leftovers without the pasta drying out?

Add a splash of milk or olive oil before refrigerating to help retain moisture. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove and stir frequently for the best texture.

Jalapeno Pesto Pasta – Creamy, Spicy & Easy 30-Minute Recipe

Name: Jalapeno Pesto Pasta (Creamy, Spicy & Easy Recipe)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian Fusion
Ingredients: 5 jalapeños, deseeded (keep seeds for extra heat); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed; 1/4 cup cashews, soaked 10 minutes; 1/4 cup parmesan, grated; 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 250 g short pasta (penne, farfalle, or fusilli); 2 tbsp olive oil (for pan); 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced; 5–6 cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup milk or cream; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, toasted; 1/4 cup parmesan, for topping

Jalapeno Pesto Pasta (Creamy, Spicy & Easy Recipe)

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Creamy, spicy jalapeno pesto pasta with basil, cashews, and parmesan — a bold 30-minute fusion dinner.

Author: Olivia Bennett
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop + Broil
Cuisine: Italian Fusion
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

5 jalapeños, deseeded (keep seeds for extra heat)

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed

1/4 cup cashews, soaked 10 minutes

1/4 cup parmesan, grated

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp salt

250 g short pasta (penne, farfalle, or fusilli)

2 tbsp olive oil (for pan)

4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

1/2 cup bell peppers, diced

5–6 cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup milk or cream

1/2 cup breadcrumbs, toasted

1/4 cup parmesan, for topping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Blend jalapeños, basil, cashews, parmesan, and salt; drizzle in olive oil until smooth.

2. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente; reserve 1/4 cup pasta water and drain.

3. Sauté garlic in olive oil; add peppers and tomatoes for 1–2 minutes.

4. Stir in pesto and reserved pasta water; simmer gently.

5. Toss in pasta and milk/cream until coated.

6. (Optional) Transfer to a baking dish; top with breadcrumbs and parmesan; broil 3–4 minutes until golden.

Notes

Adjust heat by adding or removing jalapeño seeds.

Use pasta water to emulsify for a glossy sauce.

Swap cashews with almonds or pine nuts; pecorino works instead of parmesan.

Store pesto up to 3 days refrigerated (cover with a thin layer of oil).

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 570
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 27g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Find it online: https://www.flavourrecipe.com/jalapeno-pesto-pasta/