There’s a certain joy in creating a dish that’s not only vibrant but also brimming with flavor. Imagine the thrill of tossing fresh Tuscan kale with fragrant basil, sharp parmesan, and rich olive oil to craft a delectable pesto. This Herby Kale Pesto Pasta with Buttery Walnuts is exactly that—a delightful surprise that turns simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.
After an afternoon spent at my local farmers’ market, I found myself inspired to put a new twist on a classic favorite. As I stirred the bubbling pasta, the aroma of toasting walnuts and sizzling garlic filled my kitchen, instantly elevating my mood. This dish is perfect for those moments when you crave something comforting yet impressive, making it a crowd-pleaser at dinner parties or a cozy weeknight meal.
The best part? It all comes together effortlessly, so you can enjoy every bite without the stress. So let’s dive into this creamy and herby delight that promises to turn your dining experience into something spectacular!
Why will you love Herby Kale Pesto Pasta with Buttery Walnuts?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of kale, basil, and rich parmesan melds into a vibrant pesto you’ll want to make again and again.
Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or an intimate dinner party, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Nutty surprise: The buttery walnuts add a delightful crunch, elevating each bite with their toasted flavor.
Creamy indulgence: Topping it all with luscious burrata cheese creates a rich, dreamy finish that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Herby Kale Pesto Pasta Ingredients
• For your delicious Herby Kale Pesto Pasta.
For the Pesto
- Tuscan kale – Roughly chopped, it adds a nutrient-packed base for your pesto.
- Fresh basil – Provides a sweet, aromatic essence that complements the earthy kale.
- Grated parmesan cheese – Melts beautifully into the pesto, giving a savory kick to your dish.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Use quality oil to enhance flavor while helping the pesto come together.
- Kosher salt – Essential for bringing out the vibrant flavors in the pesto.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – A pinch adds a subtle heat that elevates the overall taste.
For the Pasta
- Favorite pasta – Choose your preferred shape for perfect texture and mouthfeel.
- Black pepper – Freshly ground enhances the flavor profile of the entire dish.
For the Garlic & Walnuts
- Salted butter – Adds richness and flavor when toasting the walnuts and garlic together.
- Raw walnuts – Roughly chopped, they provide crunch and an earthy, nutty flavor that beautifully complements the pasta.
- Chopped fresh thyme – Offers a hint of herbal freshness that brightens the dish.
- Lemon zest and juice – Brightens the dish, giving it a fresh and zesty finish.
- Garlic – Minced or grated, it infuses a delicious aroma when sautéed.
For Serving
- Fresh burrata cheese – At room temperature, it melts into a creamy layer that makes this dish truly indulgent.
Get ready to experience the magic of combining these ingredients as you whip up this Herby Kale Pesto Pasta with Buttery Walnuts!
How to Make Herby Kale Pesto Pasta with Buttery Walnuts
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Blend Pesto: In a blender or food processor, combine the kale, basil, parmesan, olive oil, a pinch of salt, and crushed red pepper. Pulse until you achieve a chunky smooth texture.
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Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain.
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Toast Walnuts: Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the butter, walnuts, thyme, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butter is golden brown and the walnuts are toasted. Transfer the walnuts to a plate.
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Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the same skillet, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the drained pasta, kale pesto, lemon juice, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss everything to combine, and thin out the pasta with the reserved cooking water as desired.
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Serve: In each serving bowl, break apart the burrata cheese and let it settle at the bottom. Spoon the kale pesto pasta over the cheese and top with the buttery walnuts. Enjoy the creamy and herby goodness!
Optional: Drizzle with additional olive oil for a finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Herby Kale Pesto Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftover Herby Kale Pesto Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors stay fresh and vibrant.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your pesto pasta, do so before adding burrata. Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to bring back the creamy consistency.
Burrata Storage: If you have leftover burrata, keep it in a small bowl covered with olive oil in the fridge for flavor enhancement, using within a week for the best creaminess.
What to Serve with Herby Kale Pesto Pasta with Buttery Walnuts?
When it comes to building a delightful meal, the right pairings can elevate the experience to new heights.
- Garlic Bread: The warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up extra pesto, making each bite more indulgent.
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Their juicy sweetness and vibrant color contrast beautifully with the earthy flavors of the pasta. Toss them with olive oil and roast until blistered for an irresistible side.
- Arugula Salad: A fresh, peppery salad brightens the plate and adds a refreshing crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette to tie everything together.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken breasts can complement the pasta with their savory flavor while adding protein to the meal.
- Lemon Sorbet: This light and zesty dessert serves as a perfect palate cleanser to finish off your vibrant meal. It offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine pairs exquisitely with the herby notes and buttery richness, enhancing the flavors of your culinary creation.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender and vibrant, the slight crunch and grassy flavor bring another textural element to the table, making for a well-rounded meal.
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil: A drizzle on the finished dish adds a beautiful sheen and an additional layer of flavor. For an extra twist, infuse with garlic or citrus.
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: This playful dessert brings a sweet and slightly tangy finish after a hearty meal, making it the perfect playful conclusion.
Make Ahead Options
These Herby Kale Pesto Pasta with Buttery Walnuts are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the kale pesto up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and vibrant. Additionally, you can toast the walnuts and sauté the garlic ahead of time, allowing them to cool before refrigerating. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook your pasta fresh and combine it with the kale pesto, garlic, and walnuts. This way, you’ll have a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort, just as delightful as if you made it all in one go!
Expert Tips for Herby Kale Pesto Pasta
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest Tuscan kale and basil for the best flavor. Old, wilted greens can dull the vibrant essence of your Herby Kale Pesto Pasta.
- Pasta Water Rescue: Don’t forget to reserve your pasta cooking water. A little can help loosen the sauce if it gets too thick, ensuring creamy goodness throughout.
- Balance the Flavor: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper for your preferred flavor; every palate is unique, and this dish is versatile!
- Avoid Overcooking: When cooking the pasta, aim for al dente. It will continue to cook when tossed with the hot pesto and can easily become mushy.
- Burrata Magic: Let your burrata come to room temperature before serving. This will promote its decadently creamy texture that mixes beautifully with the warm pasta.
Herby Kale Pesto Pasta Variations
Explore these delightful twists to give your Herby Kale Pesto Pasta a personal touch and elevate its deliciousness!
- Nut-Free: Swap walnuts for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely to cater to nut allergies.
- Vegan Delight: Replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use vegan butter to keep it dairy-free without losing flavor.
- Zesty Spin: Add a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the pesto.
- Pasta Perfection: Experiment with different pasta types, like whole wheat or gluten-free, for a unique texture and health boost.
- Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche for an extra rich and velvety sauce that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Heat It Up: Add diced fresh jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who love a bit of spice in their dishes!
- Herb Blend: Mix up the herbs by adding cilantro or parsley in the pesto for a fragrant twist that surprises the palate.
- Savory Boost: Include roasted red peppers or olives in your pasta for added layers of flavor that create a Mediterranean touch.
Each variation brings its own charm, allowing you to craft a dish that’s uniquely yours!
Herby Kale Pesto Pasta with Buttery Walnuts Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting Tuscan kale?
Absolutely! When choosing Tuscan kale, look for vibrant, dark green leaves that are firm and crisp. Avoid any leaves with dark spots all over or limp, wilting edges. Freshly harvested kale will have a slightly sweet flavor as opposed to a bitter one.
How long can I store leftover Herby Kale Pesto Pasta in the fridge?
You can store leftover Herby Kale Pesto Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain the freshness and prevent moisture buildup.
Can I freeze this pesto pasta for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta, but it’s best to do so before adding the burrata cheese. Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or olive oil to revive the creamy texture.
What if my kale pesto turns out too thick?
No worries! If your pesto is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out by gradually adding in the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency. Always start with a little and stir well before adding more to ensure you don’t overshoot.
Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
Great question! This recipe includes raw walnuts, which can be a concern for those with nut allergies. You can easily substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether for a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that the texture will differ, but the flavors will still shine through beautifully.
How should I store leftover burrata cheese?
If you have leftover burrata cheese, I recommend storing it in a small bowl covered with olive oil in the fridge. This not only helps preserve its creamy texture but also enhances its flavor! Use it within a week for the best results.
Herby Kale Pesto Pasta with Buttery Walnuts You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a blender or food processor, combine the kale, basil, parmesan, olive oil, a pinch of salt, and crushed red pepper. Pulse until you achieve a chunky smooth texture.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the butter, walnuts, thyme, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butter is golden brown and the walnuts are toasted. Transfer the walnuts to a plate.
- Add the minced garlic to the same skillet, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the drained pasta, kale pesto, lemon juice, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss everything to combine, and thin out the pasta with the reserved cooking water as desired.
- In each serving bowl, break apart the burrata cheese and let it settle at the bottom. Spoon the kale pesto pasta over the cheese and top with the buttery walnuts. Enjoy the creamy and herby goodness!