Spinach and Walnut Pesto Pasta

ingredients

For the pesto:

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the pasta:

• 8 oz pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
• Salt for boiling water

Optional toppings:

• Additional grated Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh basil leaves

How to Make Pesto Pasta Sauce:

Making Homemade Pesto Sauce:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly and pat them dry.
• Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let them cool.
• Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves.

1. Blend the Ingredients:

• In a food processor or blender, combine the spinach, toasted walnuts, chopped garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Pulse the mixture until finely chopped.
• While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Add more olive oil if needed.

1. Adjust Seasoning:

• Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

Using Pesto from a Jar with Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
  

1. Combine with Pesto:

• In a separate pan, warm the pesto sauce over low heat.
• Once the pasta is cooked, transfer it to the pan with the warmed pesto sauce.
• Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the pesto. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

What to Add to Pesto Pasta:

• Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be added for extra protein.
• Vegetables: Roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli complement the flavors of pesto.
• Herbs: Fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley can be sprinkled on top for added freshness.
• Cheese: Additional grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese can be sprinkled over the pasta before serving.

Pesto Pasta Q&A:

• Can I make pesto pasta ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the pesto sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve and toss it with the pesto sauce.
• Can I freeze pesto pasta?
  While you can freeze pesto sauce, it’s best to freeze it without combining it with the pasta. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve and then toss it with thawed pesto sauce.

What to Serve with Pesto Pasta:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread for a classic Italian meal.
• Caprese Salad: A light and refreshing Caprese salad with tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers make a delicious accompaniment to pesto pasta.
• Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Enjoy your pesto pasta!