Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Pasta with Walnut Pesto dish that combines the earthy taste of walnuts with the freshness of basil, creating a creamy and satisfying sauce for your favorite pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
Walnut Pesto:
- 1 cup walnuts
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- extra grated Parmesan and chopped walnuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Make the Walnut Pesto: In a food processor, combine the walnuts, basil, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice until the pesto is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss and Serve: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the walnut pesto, adding a bit of reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce and help it coat the noodles evenly. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and chopped walnuts if desired.
Notes
- Try toasting the walnuts beforehand for a deeper flavor.
- Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
