Introduction
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a homemade pasta dish that combines the rich earthiness of sautéed mushrooms with the vibrant freshness of homemade walnut pesto. This recipe provides an easy yet impressive meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. With just a few quality ingredients, you’ll create a comforting dish that is as satisfying as it is delicious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Pasta:
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 16 ounces fresh sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup grated or shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, for topping
For the Walnut Pesto:
– 1 cup walnuts
– 1 1/2 cups packed greens (spinach or basil)
– 1/2 to 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 clove garlic
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Toast the Walnuts
In a small sauté pan over low heat, toast the walnuts without any butter or oil. Stir and shake the pan until the walnuts are fragrant and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
Prepare the Walnut Pesto
In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, greens, shredded Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is mostly smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Mushrooms
In a wide skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deep golden brown. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Mushrooms
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the butter and mushrooms.
Add Parmesan and Parsley
Sprinkle the grated or shaved Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mushrooms. Add the fresh parsley and toss everything together.
Serve with Walnut Pesto
Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Top each serving with a generous spoonful of the walnut pesto. Alternatively, you can stir the walnut pesto directly into the pasta before serving.
Notes
Walnut Toasting
Ensure you toast the walnuts over low heat to prevent burning and achieve a deeper flavor.
Pesto Consistency
Adjust the amount of olive oil in the walnut pesto to achieve your preferred consistency, whether you like it thicker or more fluid.
Pasta Water
For added flavor, consider reserving a cup of pasta water before draining. You can use it to help combine the pasta and pesto if needed.
Herb Variations
Feel free to substitute the greens in the pesto with your choice of herbs such as arugula or parsley for different flavor profiles.
Storage
Any leftover walnut pesto can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week.
Cook techniques
Toasting the Walnuts
Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Use a small sauté pan over low heat, and stir frequently until they are fragrant and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
Preparing the Walnut Pesto
Combine the toasted walnuts, packed greens, shredded Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until you achieve a mostly smooth consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Drain and set aside for later use.
Sautéing the Mushrooms
In a wide skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Combining Pasta and Mushrooms
After sautéing the mushrooms, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the butter and mushrooms for maximum flavor.
Adding Parmesan and Parsley
Sprinkle grated or shaved Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mushrooms. Add fresh parsley and toss everything together for a well-distributed flavor.
Serving with Walnut Pesto
Divide the pasta into serving bowls and top each with a generous spoonful of walnut pesto. Alternatively, mix the walnut pesto directly into the pasta before serving for an integrated flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other types of nuts for the pesto?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts such as pine nuts, almonds, or cashews, based on your preference.
What greens can I use for the pesto?
You can use spinach, basil, arugula, or a combination of these greens for a fresh and flavorful pesto.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the texture and flavor.
Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Absolutely! The walnut pesto can be prepared in advance and kept in the refrigerator for several days. Just give it a stir before using.
Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly. Ensure that the Parmesan cheese used is vegetarian if that is a concern.
Conclusion
This pasta dish, featuring sautéed mushrooms and a rich walnut pesto, is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy Parmesan and aromatic parsley elevate the overall experience, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests at a gathering. Enjoy the burst of flavors while savoring every bite!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Creamy Spinach and Walnut Pesto Pasta
Substitute half of the penne pasta with whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added nutrition, and blend in some cream to the walnut pesto for a creamier texture.
Grilled Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
Add slices of grilled chicken breast on top of the pasta for a protein boost, creating a heartier dish that is perfect for satisfying larger appetites.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Walnut Pesto
Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes into the walnut pesto for a tangy twist, adding depth and a pop of color to your dish.
Roasted Vegetable Pasta
Toss in a mix of roasted seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus, for an added layer of flavor and nutrients.
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Sauce
Make a creamy sauce by adding heavy cream to the sautéed mushrooms, transforming the dish into a rich, delectable experience that pairs beautifully with the walnut pesto.
Vegan Walnut Pesto Pasta
Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese in the walnut pesto to create a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing flavor.
