Basil Walnut Pesto Pasta

Here’s a recipe for Walnut and Basil Pesto Pasta — a flavorful, quick, and versatile dish that showcases walnuts in a delicious way!

Walnut and Basil Pesto Pasta

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

For the Walnut Pesto:

• 1 cup walnuts, toasted
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley (optional, for a milder taste)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil (plus extra if needed)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for spice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pesto:

1. In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, basil, parsley (if using), garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while processing, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides. Blend until smooth.
3. Add lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the pesto is too thick, add a bit more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.

2. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

3. Combine Pasta and Pesto:

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the hot pasta with the walnut pesto, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to help coat the noodles evenly. Adjust seasoning if needed.

4. Serve:

1. Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Sprinkle extra walnuts and Parmesan cheese on top. If you like spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Tips:

• Toast the walnuts: Toasting brings out their nutty flavor. Simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Storage: Extra pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
• Variations: Add arugula or spinach for a peppery kick, or swap half the walnuts for almonds or pine nuts.

Enjoy your homemade walnut pesto pasta—a satisfying and nutritious meal packed with the richness of walnuts! 🌿🍝