Almond Arugula Pesto with Mini Penne

🍝🌿 Almond Arugula Pesto with Mini Penne 🍝🌿

Almond Arugula Pesto with Mini Penne is a delightful pasta dish that combines the nuttiness of almonds, the peppery freshness of arugula, and the savory goodness of parmesan cheese to create a delicious and vibrant pesto sauce. This dish pairs this delightful pesto with mini penne pasta, creating a harmonious and flavorful meal.

📜 History:
The origins of pesto can be traced back to Italy, particularly the Liguria region. Traditional pesto, known as “Pesto Genovese,” includes ingredients like basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Almond Arugula Pesto is a creative variation that swaps out some of these classic ingredients for a unique and equally tasty twist.

🍽️ Components:
To make Almond Arugula Pesto with Mini Penne, you will need the following components:

• Almond Arugula Pesto:

  • Fresh arugula leaves 🌿
  • Almonds (toasted for extra flavor) 🌰
  • Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano for added zest) 🧀
  • Garlic cloves 🧄
  • Olive oil 🫒
  • Lemon juice 🍋
  • Salt and pepper for seasoning 🧂🌶️

• Mini Penne Pasta:

  • Mini penne pasta 🍝
  • Salt for pasta water 🧂

👩‍🍳 Steps to Prepare:
Here are the steps to prepare this delicious dish:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the mini penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
   • Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Almond Arugula Pesto:

   • In a food processor, combine fresh arugula, toasted almonds, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
   • Pulse the ingredients until they form a coarse paste.
   • While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. You can add more olive oil for a smoother texture.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed.

3. Combine Pasta and Pesto:

   • In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked mini penne pasta with the freshly prepared Almond Arugula Pesto. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto sauce.

4. Serve:

   • Plate the pasta in individual bowls or on a serving platter.
   • Garnish with some extra grated Parmesan cheese, a few toasted almond slices, and a sprinkle of fresh arugula leaves.
   • Optionally, drizzle a touch of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.

5. Enjoy:

   • Serve your Almond Arugula Pesto with Mini Penne immediately while it’s still warm.
   • It’s a perfect dish for lunch or dinner and pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine 🍷.

⏲️ Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this dish typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal option for busy days.

So there you have it, a scrumptious Almond Arugula Pesto with Mini Penne recipe! Enjoy the nutty, peppery, and cheesy flavors of this pasta dish. 🍝🌿😋

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Almond Arugula Pesto with Mini Penne:

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Protein: 10-12 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 4-5 grams
• Sugars: 2-3 grams
• Fat: 18-20 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 11-13 grams
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2-3 grams
• Cholesterol: 4-5 milligrams
• Sodium: 300-350 milligrams

Health Information:

1. Rich in Healthy Fats: The olive oil and almonds in this dish provide monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

2. Good Source of Fiber: The whole wheat pasta and arugula contribute to the dietary fiber content of this dish, promoting digestive health and helping you feel fuller for longer.

3. Protein: The combination of pasta and almonds provides a moderate amount of protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair.

4. Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is relatively low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.

5. Nutrient-Rich Greens: Arugula is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and potassium.

6. Moderate Sodium: The sodium content can vary based on your seasoning choices. Be mindful of salt to maintain healthy blood pressure.

7. Balanced Meal: This dish offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Remember that these values are approximate and can vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used. Adjusting the recipe by using whole wheat pasta or reducing cheese can further enhance its nutritional profile. Enjoy this delicious meal in moderation as part of a balanced diet.