Pasta with Walnut-Basil Pesto

By weavincanuck

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups packed fresh basil
• 1/4 cup walnuts
• 1 clove garlic, peeled
• 1 Tbs extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp crushed red-pepper flakes
• 8 oz multigrain angel hair pasta
• 1/4 cup chopped tomato (optional)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation

Step 1

In a food processor, place the basil, walnuts, garlic, oil, salt, and pepper flakes. Process, stopping the machine once or twice to scrape down the sides, until finely pureed. Scrape into a serving bowl.
Meanwhile, bring a medium pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
Stir 2 or 3 tablespoons of the pasta water into the pesto to warm it and make it creamier. Add the pasta and toss, adding more pasta water if dry. Sprinkle with the tomato, if using, and the cheese.