| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 12 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 410 | 27g | 5g | 30g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 2g | 12g | 0.4g |
Chickweed Pesto Pasta is a humble yet stunning dish that brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients in a way that dances on your palate. As someone who grew up exploring the wild landscapes of Montana, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for foraged foods and the unique flavors they offer. While my heart belongs to hearty dishes like bison burgers and venison steaks, the simplicity and purity of this pasta recipe have earned a special place in my culinary repertoire.
The beauty of Chickweed Pesto Pasta lies not only in its delightful taste but also in its health benefits. Chickweed is a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, this modest herb also boasts an impressive array of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. When combined with the fragrant freshness of basil, the creaminess of Parmesan cheese, and the rich nuttiness of pine nuts, you get a wonderfully balanced meal that is both delicious and good for you.
A Refreshing Take on a Classic
If you’re familiar with traditional basil pesto, you’ll find that chickweed adds a subtle new dimension to the sauce. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor blends seamlessly with the basil, creating a pesto that has a lovely, nuanced flavor profile. This dish is similar to classic pesto pasta, but with an earthy twist that’s both adventurous and comforting. It’s quintessentially Italian with a wild, Montanan heart.
A Perfect Pairing
Chickweed Pesto Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp, fresh salad or some simple roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside dishes like a Marinated Tomato Salad or Skillet-Roasted Brussels Sprouts for a complete, harmonious meal. This pasta also makes a delightful companion to lighter proteins, such as a citrusy grilled chicken or a delicate fish fillet.
Moreover, making pesto is a fantastic way to get creative with the greens you have on hand. If you can’t find chickweed, you could easily substitute it with arugula or spinach. Each variation brings its own unique twist, making this recipe endlessly adaptable and perfect for any season.
Embracing new flavors and culinary adventures is at the heart of what I love about cooking. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or looking to impress guests, Chickweed Pesto Pasta is a dish that promises to delight and nourish. Enjoy the process of making it as much as savoring each bite.
What You’ll Need
Method
Step One
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step Two
In a food processor, combine chickweed, basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and minced garlic.
Step Three
Pulse the ingredients in the food processor until they are coarsely chopped.
Step Four
With the processor running, slowly add the extra virgin olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally.
Step Five
Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the pesto mixture, and blend again until everything is well incorporated. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step Six
In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the chickweed pesto. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Step Seven
Serve the Chickweed Pesto Pasta immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of pine nuts, if desired. Enjoy!
