Description
This Simple Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto is a delightful and hearty pasta dish featuring sautéed golden mushrooms, tender penne pasta, and a rich, aromatic walnut pesto. Combining fresh herbs, toasted walnuts, and creamy Parmesan cheese, this recipe offers vibrant flavors and a satisfying texture perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Toast the walnuts: Place the walnuts in a small sauté pan over low heat without any butter or oil. Stir and shake the pan continuously for about 5 minutes until the walnuts become fragrant and lightly toasted, then remove from heat.
- Make the walnut pesto: In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, packed greens (spinach or basil), Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic clove, and lemon juice. Pulse the mixture until it reaches a mostly smooth consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sauté the mushrooms: Heat the butter in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they develop a deep golden-brown color and release their moisture.
- Combine pasta and mushrooms: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms. Stir well to combine. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. Stir in fresh parsley or other herbs as desired.
- Serve: Divide the pasta evenly between 4 to 6 bowls. Top each serving with a generous spoonful of the walnut pesto, or alternatively, stir the pesto directly into the pasta before serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- For a more traditional pesto flavor, use mostly fresh basil in the greens for the walnut pesto.
- You can substitute walnuts with pine nuts or almonds if preferred.
- If you want a creamier pesto, add a bit more olive oil while processing.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
