Ingredients

1/2 lb shelled walnuts
1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1 pinch salt
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese ( the real thing , please )
1 tablespoon salt
Trenette al pesto di noci is a variation on the classic Italian dish, pasta al pesto. Instead of the traditional basil pesto, this recipe features a nutty and slightly sweet walnut pesto sauce. Noci is the Italian word for nuts - in this case, walnuts - which are the star of the dish. Trenette is a thin, flat pasta similar to linguine or fettuccine that is often used in Ligurian cuisine. The dish is simple to prepare and is perfect for a cozy night in.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2.Spread the walnuts out onto a baking sheet and place them in the oven for about 10 minutes, until lightly toasted.
3.Remove the walnuts from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4.Add the walnuts and garlic to a food processor and pulse several times until the nuts are finely ground.
5.Next, add the olive oil, ricotta cheese, and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
6.Add the heavy cream and process again until completely combined.
7.Add the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese to the food processor and pulse just until combined. Keep the sauce warm while you cook the trenette pasta.
8.Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. Add the trenette pasta and cook until it is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
9.Drain the pasta and add it to a large bowl. Add the warm walnut pesto sauce and toss until the sauce is evenly distributed.
10.Serve the trenette al pesto di noci immediately with a garnish of extra grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

PROS

This unique twist on traditional pesto pasta is flavorful and delicious.

The nutty flavor and creamy texture of the walnut pesto pair perfectly with the slightly chewy trenette pasta noodles.

CONS

This pasta dish contains heavy cream and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, so it is not the healthiest option for those watching their fat intake or looking for a low-calorie meal.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While this pasta dish may not be the healthiest option out there, it does contain walnuts which are high in healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids.
The olive oil in the pesto is also a good source of healthy fats.

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