Linguine with Lemon Walnut Pesto
As summer winds down, enjoy a bit of September sunshine in the form of this lemony walnut pesto. To toast the walnuts, spread them on a cookie sheet in a single layer and place in a 350-degree-F oven for 5 to 10 minutes or until the nuts are golden and slightly fragrant.
Credit: Summer, Winter Pasta by Grace Parisi
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
* 1 cup walnuts, toasted
* 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
* 1/4 cup fruity extra-virgin olive oil
* 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
* 1 pound linguine
* Lemon balm (optional)
Directions:
In a food processor, combine the walnuts, lemon zest and red pepper flakes, pulsing until finely chopped. With the machine running, add the oil in a steady stream, pulsing until a coarse paste forms. Transfer to a large bowl, stir in the lemon juice and season with salt. Set aside.
Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain well, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
Add the pasta to the pesto and toss, adding some of the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if the pasta seems dry. Toss until mixed well.
To serve, divide the pasta among large bowls and sprinkle with some shredded fresh lemon balm, if desired.
Substitution tips: Almonds and pecans both work nicely in place of the walnuts. Lemon thyme is a good substitute if lemon balm is not available.
