This easy arugula pesto pasta is a quick and healthy weeknight dinner option. Made with fresh arugula, garlic, nuts, and Parmesan cheese, this homemade pesto with arugula brings vibrant flavors to your table.
Perfect for those busy evenings, this vegetarian pesto pasta can be prepared in under 30 minutes. It’s a delightful way to enjoy arugula recipes and makes a satisfying dish with pasta and arugula and Parmesan.
Quick and Healthy Green Pasta Dish
This vibrant arugula pesto pasta is a delightful choice for a quick weeknight meal.
With its bright green sauce, it brings a fresh and zesty flavor to the table.
Made with homemade pesto featuring fresh arugula, garlic, and nuts, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
The combination of pasta with arugula and Parmesan creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Perfect for busy evenings, this easy arugula pasta recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal option for those seeking a healthy green pasta.
Ingredients That Shine
The key to this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Fresh arugula serves as the star, providing a peppery kick that elevates the overall taste.
Alongside arugula, grated Parmesan cheese adds a creamy richness, while nuts like pine nuts or walnuts contribute a satisfying crunch.
Garlic enhances the flavor profile, and a drizzle of olive oil brings everything together into a smooth, vibrant pesto.
This vegetarian pesto pasta is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this arugula pesto pasta is straightforward and quick.
Start by cooking your choice of pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, whip up the fresh arugula pesto in a food processor, blending the ingredients until smooth.
Once the pasta is ready, simply combine it with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
This method ensures that every strand of pasta is coated in the vibrant green sauce, making each bite a burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, presentation matters.
Plate the pasta and generously top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of pine nuts for added texture.
The visual appeal of the bright green sauce against the rustic wooden table setting enhances the dining experience.
For an extra touch, consider garnishing with additional arugula leaves.
This not only adds a pop of color but also reinforces the fresh flavors of the dish.
Nutrition and Benefits
This arugula pesto pasta is not just delicious; it’s also a healthy option.
With approximately 350 calories per serving, it provides a balanced meal without compromising on flavor.
The dish is rich in healthy fats from the olive oil and nuts, while the arugula offers essential vitamins and minerals.
Incorporating this easy arugula pasta recipe into your weekly meal rotation can help you maintain a nutritious diet.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy arugula recipes that are both satisfying and beneficial for your health.
Why Choose Arugula Pesto Pasta?
Opting for arugula pesto pasta means embracing a dish that is quick, healthy, and full of flavor.
This weeknight pasta dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of fresh ingredients and simple preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy lifestyles.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this pasta with arugula and Parmesan is sure to impress.
Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a standout dish that everyone will love.
Quick and Healthy Green Pasta Dish
This arugula pesto pasta features a creamy, flavorful sauce made from fresh arugula pesto, tossed with your choice of pasta. The recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh arugula, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup nuts (pine nuts or walnuts work well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces pasta of your choice
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the arugula, Parmesan cheese, nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth.
- Combine: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the arugula pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with additional Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your healthy green pasta dish warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
