Our whole family loves this recipe! The ingredients can be kept on hand for a night when you need a quick, satisfying homemade meal. Add a side of sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli (see Three Tasty and Simple Veggie Sides) for balance and nutrition.
Ingredients for Pasta with Walnuts
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/3 C olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced thin
- 1/8 t dried pepper flakes
- 1 C chopped walnuts
- 1 T fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 t dried)
- 14.5 ounces dried penne or rotini
GARNISH TOPPING (optional, but really yummy!)
- 1/4 C grated fresh parmesan cheese
- 1/4 bread crumbs
- 1 t dried parsley
Instructions
In a large skillet sauté onions until clear. Add garlic and cook for 1 -2 minutes more.
STEP 2
With a spatula push onion and garlic to the side of the pan and tip it to pool the oil. Add the red pepper flakes to the oil and stir with just the oil, then stir the onions and garlic back into the mixture. (This helps to evenly distribute the spice of the pepper flakes.)
STEP 3
Add the walnuts, parsley and salt and pepper to taste. Cook one to two minutes more, then set aside.
STEP 4
Boil the pasta according to instructions until al dente, drain and add to skillet with walnut and onion mixture. Toss to combine.
STEP 5 (optional)
In a small bowl combine parmesan, bread crumbs and dried parsley. Set on the table for everyone to garnish pasta as they like. Enjoy!
(Makes 4 – 6 servings.)
Sounds delicious, Katie. Ok to add some protein?
Hi Mark! You’ll get about 12 grams of protein through the walnuts. I’ve never tried it, but I’m sure adding a grilled chicken breast would be tasty, too! (Tune in tomorrow for a meaty pasta – Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese with Pulled Pork.)