Arugula And Walnut Pesto Recipe

Experience a delightful dance of flavors with this vibrant Arugula and Walnut Pesto! The robust, earthy walnuts perfectly counter the peppery bite of arugula, creating a surprisingly addictive sauce. This easy recipe is ready in minutes and elevates any pasta dish to gourmet status. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Calories 398 kcal
Protein 15g
Rating 4.0 (7 Reviews)
Arugula And Walnut Pesto 94

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Arugula And Walnut Pesto

  • 2 cups packed fresh arugula
  • 1 cup walnuts
  • 1/2 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus 1 tablespoon for roasting garlic and 1-2 tablespoons more if needed
  • 6 cloves garlic
  • 6 cloves garlic
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
  • 1-2 tablespoons pasta water (optional)
  • Freshly cooked pasta, for serving

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How to Make Arugula And Walnut Pesto

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss 6 cloves garlic (unpeeled) with 1 tablespoon olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes, or until softened and lightly browned.
  3. While garlic roasts, toast 1 cup walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Alternatively, toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Once cool enough to handle, peel and roughly chop the roasted garlic.
  5. Combine 2 cups packed arugula, toasted walnuts, roasted garlic, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a food processor.
  6. Pulse until a coarse paste forms, gradually adding more olive oil (1-2 tablespoons at a time) until desired consistency is reached.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You may add more Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
  8. Serve immediately over your favorite freshly cooked pasta. Add a tablespoon or two of pasta water if needed to thin the pesto and create a creamy sauce.
  9. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of walnuts (optional).

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

8 g

Sugar

3g

Fat

34g

Carbs

1g

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