Artichoke Pesto Pasta Recipe

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this vibrant Artichoke Pesto Pasta! This unique pesto, featuring creamy artichoke hearts, is easily made ahead for a quick and satisfying meal. Toss it with hot pasta for a delicious dinner or serve it as a stunning side dish alongside chicken, steak, or fish. Inspired by Kathryn Murdock of Moss Beach, CA, and featured in Sunset Magazine's 'Kitchen Cabinet,' this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready for a burst of fresh, savory flavor!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 502.7 kcal
Protein 39g
Rating 4.0 (2 Reviews)
Artichoke Pesto Pasta

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Artichoke Pesto Pasta

  • 1/2 cup pine nuts
  • Water Packed Artichoke Hearts
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 ounces cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Garlic Clove
  • Ground Nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth, plus 1/4 cup for the pasta
  • Fresh Parsley
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1 pound fettuccine

How to Make Artichoke Pesto Pasta

  1. Toast 1/2 cup pine nuts in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Set aside.
  2. In a food processor, combine 14 ounces canned artichoke hearts (drained), 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 ounces cream cheese, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/2 cup vegetable broth.
  3. Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
  4. Cook 1 pound fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  5. Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Add 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water and toss over medium heat.
  6. Pour the artichoke pesto over the pasta and toss gently to combine. Add more pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
  7. Garnish with the toasted pine nuts, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

15 g

Sugar

13g

Fat

30g

Carbs

22g

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