Basil & Walnut Pesto Pasta
SERVES 2 | Prep Time 10 minutes | Cook Time 20 minutes
Vegan | Refined Sugar-Free | Gluten-Free options | Dairy Free
Ingredients:
4 cups fresh basil leaves
3 cloves garlic peeled
1/2 cup walnuts toasted
1/2 cup parmesan-Reggiano cheese (optional)
zest and juice of one lemon
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil more as needed
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 Cups Pasta Shape Of Choice
Instructions~
* To the bowl of a food processor or blender add basil, garlic, walnuts, parmesan, lemon zest, juice, and paprika.
* Pulse a few times to break down the basil.
* In a steady stream add olive oil, pulsing until the olive oil is blended into other ingredients and mixture forms a loose paste. If your pesto is too thick, add additional olive oil one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
* Season with salt and pepper.
* In a large bottomed pan of boiling water add salt, few drops of olive oil add pasta and boil for 7-9 minutes on medium flame
* Check for the Al- Dante consistency (the pasta should be soft with a bite)
* Strain this cooked pasta and mix with pesto
*Garnish with basil leaves and some parmesan cheese (optional)
* Enjoy !
This recipe was created for Unpackaged by Flavorful Diva