Pasta with Parsley-Walnut Pesto Recipe

Pasta with Parsley-Walnut Pesto Recipe

  • 2 tablespoons walnuts
  • 2 slices whole-wheat country bread, crusts trimmed
  • 1 cup packed fresh parsley leaves
  • 1 clove garlic, peeled and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons nonfat plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons walnut oil or extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
  • 12 ounces whole-wheat fusilli or penne
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  1. Put a large pot of lightly salted water on to boil. Toast walnuts in a small skillet over medium heat, stirring, until fragrant, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  2. Tear bread into large pieces and pulse in a food processor to form fine crumbs. Add parsley, garlic and the walnuts and pulse until finely chopped, scraping down the sides as needed. Add yogurt and oil; process until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook pasta until just tender, 8 to 10 minutes, or according to package directions. Drain and place in a warmed large shallow bowl. Toss with pesto until well coated. Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve.