This rustic Walnut Pesto Sauce offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian condiment by substituting pine nuts with earthy, crunchy walnuts. The rich flavor profile is balanced by fresh basil, aromatic parsley, and sharp Parmesan cheese, all bound together with smooth olive oil. It delivers a luxurious texture and a bright, herbaceous taste that elevates simple dishes. Ideal for tossing with hot pasta, spreading on crusty bread, or using as a marinade for chicken and fish. This versatile sauce is quick to prepare in a food processor and makes an impressive addition to any dinner party or cozy weeknight meal.
Walnut Pesto Sauce
Description
This rustic Walnut Pesto Sauce offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian condiment by substituting pine nuts with earthy, crunchy walnuts. The rich flavor profile is balanced by fresh basil, aromatic parsley, and sharp Parmesan cheese, all bound together with smooth olive oil. It delivers a luxurious texture and a bright, herbaceous taste that elevates simple dishes. Ideal for tossing with hot pasta, spreading on crusty bread, or using as a marinade for chicken and fish. This versatile sauce is quick to prepare in a food processor and makes an impressive addition to any dinner party or cozy weeknight meal.Ingredients
Directions
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Finely chop the walnuts and garlic clove in a food processor.
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Add half of the fresh basil leaves and salt; pulse until coarsely chopped.
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Add the remaining basil and the packed Italian flat-leaf parsley; pulse to combine.
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With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the feed tube until the mixture is thoroughly blended and emulsified.
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Transfer the sauce to a bowl and gently fold in the grated Parmesan cheese.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
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Serve immediately over hot pasta tossed with reserved cooking liquid, or use as directed.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 233.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19.6g31%
- Saturated Fat 1.9g10%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 4.8mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 12.4g5%
- Dietary Fiber 2.5g10%
- Sugars 1.0g
- Protein 6.2g13%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Freeze individually portioned pesto in small cups or ice cube trays. Once frozen, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Defrost before using.
Ingredient Variations: For a stronger garlic flavor, increase to 4 cloves. To make this recipe fully vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan parmesan alternative.
Tip: Always reserve about 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water before draining. Adding this liquid helps emulsify the sauce and helps it coat the pasta evenly.
