Walnut Sauce Recipe
Category: Sauces & Dressings
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Walnuts | 160g |
Extra virgin olive oil | 70g |
Garlic | 1 clove |
Pine nuts | 20g |
Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 30g |
Whole milk | 160g |
Marjoram | 4g |
Bread (preferably stale) | 30g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Walnuts:
Start by placing a deep saucepan on the stove, and fill it with water. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the walnuts and allow them to cook for about 5 minutes. This step helps soften the outer skin of the walnuts, making it easier to peel them later. Once the walnuts are ready, drain them using a colander. Set them aside to cool slightly. -
Soften the Bread:
While the walnuts are cooling, take a deep bowl and add the bread (preferably a slightly stale loaf, as it absorbs liquids better). Pour the whole milk over the bread and mix gently to ensure the bread soaks up the milk evenly. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, allowing the bread to soften completely. -
Drain the Excess Milk:
After the bread has softened, place a fine mesh strainer over a small bowl and transfer the bread mixture into the strainer. Press the bread lightly with a spatula to remove excess milk. Keep the milk aside for potential use later, as it may be needed for consistency adjustments in the sauce. -
Peel the Walnuts:
Once the walnuts have cooled down, carefully remove the outer skin from each walnut. The skin should peel off easily after the boiling process. -
Blend the Ingredients:
In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine the peeled walnuts, the soaked bread, pine nuts, garlic, and marjoram. Pulse the mixture until it forms a smooth, thick paste. -
Add the Olive Oil:
While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. This will help emulsify the sauce, creating a creamy and smooth consistency. Continue blending until the sauce is perfectly combined and smooth. -
Finish the Sauce:
Once the walnut sauce has reached the desired consistency, taste it and add salt or extra olive oil if needed. For a richer flavor, you can also stir in grated Parmigiano Reggiano DOP. -
Serve:
This walnut sauce can be used to dress pasta, drizzle over roasted vegetables, or even as a dip for crusty bread. Its creamy texture and nutty flavor make it a versatile addition to many dishes.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 6g |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Fats | 31g |
Fiber | 3g |
Sugar | 2g |
Sodium | 5mg |
Calcium | 60mg |
This Walnut Sauce is a creamy, flavorful, and versatile addition to many dishes. The walnuts offer a rich, nutty texture that pairs beautifully with the subtle flavors of garlic and marjoram, while the addition of Parmigiano Reggiano DOP enhances the overall taste. Perfect for pastas, as a dip, or as a topping for roasted vegetables, this sauce will add a touch of sophistication to any meal.