Pasta con Rucola e Noci
Pasta con Rucola e Noci
Equipment
- Equipment Needed: Blender or food processor, large pot, frying pan
Ingredients
- Ingredients for 4 servings
- 320 g 11 oz of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 100 g 3.5 oz fresh arugula (rucola)
- 50 g 1.75 oz walnuts (shelled)
- 50 g 1.75 oz grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small garlic clove optional, for added flavor
- 100 ml 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Method:
- Prepare the Pesto:
- Wash the arugula thoroughly and pat dry.
- In a food processor or blender, combine the arugula, walnuts, garlic (if using), and Parmesan. Blend until smooth.
- Slowly add olive oil while blending until the pesto reaches a creamy consistency. Season with salt to taste.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water to help adjust the consistency of the pesto later.
- Combine:
- Drain the pasta and transfer it directly into a large frying pan over low heat.
- Add the pesto and stir well, adding reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan and a few extra walnut pieces if desired. A sprinkle of black pepper also adds a nice touch.
- Variations and Tips:
- For a Vegan Version: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and skip the cheese entirely.
- For a Nut-Free Version: Swap the walnuts for sunflower seeds or skip them altogether.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, you can add grilled chicken or even roasted vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes.
Hello all,
Zio Leo here!
Cooking and sharing great food brings people together in the most authentic way, in my own personal experience, and with a lifelong passion for Italian cuisine, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and stories that celebrate the rich flavors of Italy. From classic dishes to modern twists, have my guides inspired you to bring a little bit of Italy into your kitchen? Please, be honest with me here. Leave your comments down below. I’d love to hear from real people like you. Read more about me here! =>>