Linguini with walnut pesto is a delectable pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of walnuts and fresh herbs. This dish is a wonderful alternative to the traditional pesto made with pine nuts.
The addition of walnuts gives the pesto a unique nutty flavor and a delightful crunch. Linguini, a type of long, flat pasta, is the perfect choice for this dish as it complements the pesto sauce perfectly. This recipe is quick and easy to make, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The Ingredients You Will Need
When making Linguini with walnut pesto, you will need the following ingredients:.
- 8 ounces of linguini pasta
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup of walnuts
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing the Walnut Pesto
To prepare the walnut pesto, follow these simple steps:.
Step 1: Toast the Walnuts
Begin by toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them frequently to prevent burning. Toasting the walnuts will enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch to the pesto.
Once the walnuts become fragrant and lightly browned, remove them from the heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine the cooled toasted walnuts, basil leaves, garlic cloves, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped and well combined.
While pulsing, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste and blend briefly once again.
Step 3: Cook the Linguini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of the cooking water.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked linguini with the walnut pesto. Toss the pasta until it is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce. If the pesto seems too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
Once well combined, transfer the Linguini with walnut pesto to serving plates and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
Related Article
Linguini with basil pesto
Tips for Serving Linguini with Walnut Pesto
Here are a few tips to elevate your Linguini with walnut pesto and make it even more delightful:.
1. Add Some Protein
For a heartier meal, consider adding some protein to the dish. Grilled chicken or shrimp make excellent additions that will add flavor and texture to the pasta.
Simply cook your protein of choice separately and toss it with the Linguini and walnut pesto before serving.
2. Experiment with Cheeses
While Parmesan cheese is traditional in pesto, you can experiment with other cheeses to add a unique twist. Try using pecorino romano, Asiago, or even a combination of different cheeses to create your own flavorful variation.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs
To add a burst of freshness and color, garnish your Linguini with walnut pesto with some freshly chopped herbs.
Basil leaves, parsley, or a sprinkle of chopped chives are all excellent choices that will enhance the overall presentation and taste of the dish.
4. Pair with a Light Salad
Linguini with walnut pesto pairs wonderfully with a light salad. Consider serving it with a simple mixed greens salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette or balsamic dressing.
The crispness and acidity of the salad will balance the richness of the pasta dish.
Conclusion
Linguini with walnut pesto is a delicious and satisfying pasta dish that offers a unique twist on traditional pesto.
The combination of toasted walnuts, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese creates a flavorful and creamy sauce that coats the linguini beautifully. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Add your own personal touch by experimenting with additional ingredients, and enjoy this delightful pasta dish with family and friends.
