walnut pesto pasta

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup (240ml) of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
2. While the pasta cooks, place the toasted walnuts, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic in a food processor. Pulse until the walnuts are finely ground.
3. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and water until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and pulse to combine. If the pesto is too thick, add more water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
5. Return the cooked pasta to the pot over low heat. Add the walnut pesto and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.