Almond Arugula Pesto Pasta
Introduction
Almond Arugula Pesto Pasta is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines the nutty flavor of almonds with the peppery taste of arugula. This pasta recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a tasty and healthy meal for any day of the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe will satisfy your cravings!
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to love Almond Arugula Pesto Pasta. Firstly, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days. The bright flavors of the pesto elevate the pasta, giving it a gourmet touch without much effort. Plus, the combination of arugula and almonds offers a unique twist on traditional pesto, providing a delicious way to get more greens and healthy fats into your diet. It’s also versatile—feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home!
How to Make Almond Arugula Pesto Pasta
Ingredients:
- 250 g (8–9 oz) pasta of choice (fusilli, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 cups fresh arugula, packed
- 1⁄3 cup roasted almonds
- 1 garlic clove
- 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1⁄2 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1⁄2 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: extra arugula, shaved Parmesan, or lemon zest for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, saving 1⁄4 cup of pasta water.
- In a food processor, combine arugula, almonds, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse to combine.
- While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the pesto is smooth and creamy.
- Toss the hot pasta with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra arugula, shaved Parmesan, or lemon zest if desired.
How to Serve Almond Arugula Pesto Pasta
To serve your Almond Arugula Pesto Pasta, simply plate it in a large bowl or individual servings. You can add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a few leaves of fresh arugula on top for extra color and flavor. This dish pairs well with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Almond Arugula Pesto Pasta
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in a pan on low heat and add a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce.
Tips to Make Almond Arugula Pesto Pasta
- Make sure to not overcook the pasta; al dente is the way to go for the best texture.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic based on your personal taste. If you love garlic, add an extra clove!
- For a creamier pesto, you can add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt when mixing the pesto.
Variation
You can switch up the nuts in the pesto if you prefer. Walnuts, cashews, or even sunflower seeds can be used as alternatives to almonds, each giving a different flavor. You can also add other greens like spinach or basil to the pesto for varied tastes.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.
2. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
You can use any pasta of your choice like fusilli, penne, or spaghetti. Whole grain pasta is also a great option for added fiber.
3. Can I freeze the pesto?
Yes! You can freeze the pesto in an ice cube tray, allowing you to use it later without needing to make a fresh batch each time. Just pop the cubes in the fridge to thaw before using.
