Simple Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto
Simple Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto made with easy ingredients like Parmesan cheese, whole wheat penne, mushrooms, garlic, and butter. Vegetarian.
Simple Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto made with easy ingredients like Parmesan cheese, whole wheat penne, mushrooms, garlic, and butter. Vegetarian.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces penne pasta (i like to use whole wheat)
- 4 tablespoons land o lakesâ® european style super premium butter
- 16 ounces fresh sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup grated or shaved parmesan cheese
- salt pepper, and fresh parsley for topping
- 1 1/2 cups packed greens (spinach, basil, parsley, anything
- Carbohydrate 10.6321579057738 g
- Cholesterol 7.2 mg
- Fat 24.8521044878216 g
- Fiber 4.91640438655588 g
- Protein 13.5374143342258 g
- Saturated Fat 3.29010191012611 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6, depending on how hungry you are! (228g)
- Sodium 670.98353592978 mg
- Sugar 5.71575351921787 g
- Trans Fat 2.03804988816853 g
- Calories 297 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Toast the walnuts in a small sauté pan over low heat with no butter or oil - stir and shake the pan until the walnuts are fragrant and toasty (about 5 minutes).
- In a food processor, combine all the ingredients for the walnut pesto and pulse until mostly smooth.
- Heat the butter over medium heat in a wide skillet. Add the mushrooms and saute for 8-10 minutes, until the mushrooms are a deep golden brown.
- Add the penne pasta to the pan and stir to combine, adding Parmesan, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley or other herbs to taste.
- Divide the pasta between 4-6 bowls and top with a generous spoonful of the walnut pesto OR stir the walnut pesto directly into the pasta.
Simple Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a Herculean task. But honestly, sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. This Simple Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto is a perfect example. It’s quick, easy, and tastes amazing – a true weeknight lifesaver! This recipe effortlessly combines earthy mushrooms with a vibrant, nutty pesto, creating a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated.
The best part? The ingredient list is short and sweet, relying on pantry staples and fresh, seasonal produce. No fancy ingredients or hours of prep time needed here. This recipe is incredibly versatile too. Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms – cremini, shiitake, or even a mix! The pesto also lends itself to customization. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you can easily substitute with almonds or pine nuts. And don’t be afraid to get creative with your herbs! A sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano would add a lovely aromatic touch.
This pasta dish is not just quick and tasty; it's also surprisingly nutritious. Whole wheat penne provides fiber, while the mushrooms are packed with vitamins and minerals. The walnuts in the pesto contribute healthy fats and protein, making this a well-rounded meal that will keep you feeling full and energized. It’s a perfect option for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner. The creamy texture of the pesto complements the earthy mushrooms perfectly, creating a symphony of flavors in your mouth. It’s a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your weeknight rotation.
Beyond the Recipe: A Taste of Simplicity
This recipe isn't just about the food; it's about embracing the simplicity of cooking. In our fast-paced lives, it's easy to get caught up in complicated recipes and elaborate meal plans. But sometimes, the most rewarding meals are the ones that come together quickly and easily, allowing us to savor the process and enjoy the company of loved ones. This mushroom penne is a celebration of those simple pleasures – a comforting dish that brings a little bit of joy to even the busiest of days.
The aroma of garlic, butter, and toasted walnuts fills the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It's the kind of food that nourishes not just the body, but also the soul. The simple act of making a delicious and healthy meal for yourself or your family is a small act of self-care, a moment of peace in the midst of a chaotic day.
More than just a meal; it's a moment.
So, the next time you're short on time but craving a flavorful and satisfying meal, reach for this Simple Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto. It's a recipe that proves that delicious and healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a recipe that reminds us that even amidst the whirlwind of daily life, there's always time for a little bit of culinary joy.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a touch of heat.
- Add some greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad for added nutrition.
- Leftovers? This pasta reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day!
Enjoy!
