Rich and delicious Walnut Pesto can be made in minutes in a food processor or blender—it will be ready before the pasta has cooked. Make extra; it keeps well for 3 or 4 days in the refrigerator and is good on boiled potatoes and steamed fish.
Recipe information
Yield
serves 4 to 6
Ingredients
Walnut Pesto
Preparation
Step 1
Bring a large covered pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta-cooking liquid and then drain.
Step 2
Meanwhile, make the Walnut Pesto: In a blender or food processor, purée the tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and salt for a few seconds, until smooth. Add the walnuts and process until an even-colored and somewhat lumpy paste is formed. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, you might need to add 1 or 2 tablespoons of water to the mixture.
Step 3
Transfer the drained pasta to a serving bowl. Toss the pasta with the Walnut Pesto, adding enough reserved cooking liquid to make it saucy. Serve immediately, topped with basil and grated cheese, if you wish.
Serving & menu ideas
Step 4
Serve with a simple green vegetable, such as broccoli or sautéed greens, or with a spinach salad with Caesar Dressing (page 220). Make Watercress Crostini (page 136) to munch on until the pasta is ready.
