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Best pesto pasta recipe

Arugula Pesto Pasta Recipe

Homemade arugula pesto transforms this simple pesto pasta recipe into a rich, peppery, and delicious spring side dish.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 561kcal

Ingredients

Arugula pesto:

Pasta:

Instructions

Make the pesto:

  • Add the Marcona almonds, basil leaves, garlic, Parmigiano Reggiano, crushed red pepper, and arugula to a large food processor. Pulse until a coarse meal forms.
  • With the processor on, slowly add ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil. If you want a smoother pesto, continue adding the remaining ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil until your desired consistency is met. Taste and add salt and pepper, and pulse the processor to incorporate.

Boil the pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water. Drain the pasta.

Make the pasta:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil in a wide pot over medium heat. Add the shallot and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until it softens.
  • Add the pesto and stir to combine. Bring to a low boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Taste and season.

Finish the pasta:

  • Add ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water to the pest and return it to a low boil. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat for 2 to 3 minutes, adding more pasta water if needed. Once the pasta is completely coated, turn off the heat.

To serve:

  • Transfer the pasta to a large serving bowl. Finish with freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano and scatter a few basil leaves on top. Enjoy!

Notes

Note 1: If you don’t have Marcona almonds, replace them with cashews, blanched hazelnuts, or pine nuts.

Nutrition

Calories: 561kcal | Carbohydrates: 61g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 29g | Sodium: 120mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin C: 6mg
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