Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy! This incredibly simple yet luxuriously rich linguini with walnut sauce is about to become your new favorite comfort food. Imagine a plate of perfectly cooked pasta, dressed in a creamy, nutty sauce that's both elegant and satisfying - a dish that looks like it came straight from a high-end restaurant but can be whipped up in just 25 minutes in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguini
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- While the water is heating, toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Add the linguini to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
- Add the toasted walnuts to the garlic and olive oil, stirring to combine and warm through for 1-2 minutes.
- Drain the linguini and add it directly to the skillet with the walnut mixture. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce seems dry, add some reserved pasta water to help create a smoother consistency.
- Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the pasta and continue tossing to incorporate.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot, with additional parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Tips
- • Toast your walnuts carefully - this step is crucial for releasing their deep, rich flavor. Watch them closely and stir constantly to prevent burning. • Reserve pasta water before draining - this starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky, smooth sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. • Use fresh garlic and don't let it brown, as it can become bitter and overpower the delicate walnut flavor. • For an extra flavor boost, try using freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano instead of pre-grated parmesan. • Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the best texture and flavor combination. • Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a subtle kick of heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 48g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 20mg
