Watercress Pesto Pasta
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this vibrant and zesty Watercress Pesto Pasta! Bursting with fresh flavors, this unique twist on classic pesto combines peppery watercress, fragrant basil, nutty Parmesan, and rich pine nuts for a creamy, herbaceous sauce that clings perfectly to al dente pasta. A hint of garlic and a splash of lemon juice elevate the flavor profile while reserved pasta water ensures a silky, restaurant-worthy finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy schedules yet elegant enough for entertaining. Serve it with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or crunchy pine nuts for a delightful finishing touch. Ideal for lovers of quick pasta recipes, fresh herbs, and easy gourmet meals, this Watercress Pesto Pasta is the perfect way to brighten your dinner table.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz Pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- 3 cups Fresh watercress
- 1 cup Fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.333 cup Pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 2 cloves Fresh garlic cloves
- 0.5 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.5 cup Pasta cooking water (reserved)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the watercress pesto. In a food processor, combine the fresh watercress, basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic cloves, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
Pulse the mixture until roughly combined. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the food processor is running, blending until the pesto is smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add the watercress pesto and toss until the pasta is evenly coated. If needed, add a little more reserved pasta water to help the pesto coat the pasta smoothly.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or black pepper, if needed.
Divide the pasta among serving plates and garnish with extra grated Parmesan, a few fresh basil leaves, or a sprinkle of pine nuts for crunch.
Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant, flavorful Watercress Pesto Pasta!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2216 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 172.8 g | 222% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.8 g | 174% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 80 mg | 27% | |
| Sodium | 3816 mg | 166% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 119.6 g | 43% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.1 g | 36% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.7 g | ||
| Protein | 63.3 g | 127% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1205 mg | 93% | |
| Iron | 8.5 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 1206 mg | 26% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
