Go Back
Walnut pesto pasta in a white bowl, topped with crispy garlic breadcrumbs and fresh herbs

Walnut Pesto Pasta

This walnut pesto pasta combines fresh herbs, creamy walnuts, and savory Parmesan cheese in a delicious homemade walnut pesto sauce. Topped with garlic breadcrumbs for the perfect vegetarian dinner!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup fresh parsley
  • 1 cup fresh basil
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • ¾ cup walnuts
  • ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, mashed
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 pound penne pasta (substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Garlic Breadcrumbs: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mashed garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs, kosher salt, and black pepper, and toast for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
  • Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
  • Make the Walnut Pesto: In a food processor, combine parsley, basil, garlic, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pulse until crumbly. Slowly drizzle in ⅓ cup olive oil while pulsing until the pesto forms a creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Toss the Pasta: In a large bowl or the pasta pot, combine the warm pasta with the walnut pesto. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a silky-smooth sauce that coats every bite.
  • Assemble and Serve: Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle the toasted garlic breadcrumbs on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!