After a long week of juggling work and life, I found myself yearning for a meal that was both comforting and nourishing. One evening, while rummaging through my fridge and pantry, I discovered vibrant kale, fresh basil, and a forgotten bag of wholewheat pasta. My culinary adventure began as I envisioned a delightful dish: Wholewheat pasta with kale, pea, and walnut pesto.
The moment I blended those earthy greens with the sweet garden peas and the crunch of toasted walnuts, the kitchen erupted with an irresistible aroma. This pesto isn’t just about flavor; it’s a vibrant celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. It comes together quickly, making it an ideal weeknight dish that dazzles the senses without demanding hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or seeking a satisfying meal to unwind with, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a star-studded plate that speaks of homemade love. Grab your utensils, and let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing favorite!
Why is wholewheat pasta with kale, pea and walnut pesto a winner?
Stunning color: Vivid greens and a touch of bright lemon create a visually appealing dish.
Health-packed: With nutritious ingredients like kale and peas, this recipe is a wholesome powerhouse.
Quick prep: Ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights!
Rich texture: The creamy pesto balances beautifully with the hearty wholewheat pasta.
Flexibility: Easily customizable—swap out nuts or add protein for your preferences!
Transform your dinners with this delicious option that’s sure to impress, whether for family or friends.
Wholewheat Pasta with Kale, Pea and Walnut Pesto Ingredients
For the Pesto
• 320g essential Waitrose frozen garden peas – a natural sweetness that enhances the flavor of your pesto.
• 250g essential Waitrose kale – packed with nutrients, just remove any thick stems for a smoother blend.
• large handful basil leaves – these fragrant leaves offer a fresh aroma and vibrant taste.
• 20g walnut halves – toasting adds extra depth and a lovely crunch to your pesto.
• 2 garlic cloves – crushed garlic brings a robust flavor that complements the greens.
• 2 tbsp essential Waitrose grated parmigiano reggiano – a touch of cheese elevates the creaminess of the pesto, plus keep extra for serving.
• 3 tbsp olive oil – helps create a silky texture, perfect for tossing with pasta.
For the Pasta
• 300g wholewheat spaghetti – this hearty pasta adds fibery goodness and pairs beautifully with the pesto.
• 1 tbsp chilli flakes – add a hint of heat for an extra zest, with more to serve if desired.
• 1 small lemon – the juice brightens the dish, balancing the flavors of the pesto.
This wholewheat pasta with kale, pea and walnut pesto is an irresistible dish that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation.
How to Make Wholewheat Pasta with Kale, Pea and Walnut Pesto
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Prepare the Peas: Put the frozen peas in a large heatproof bowl and cover them with just-boiled water. Let them sit for a minute before draining and rinsing them in cold water to stop the cooking process.
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Blanch the Kale: Blanch the kale in boiling water for 1 minute. Drain it and rinse in cold water, then wring it dry in a clean tea towel to remove excess moisture.
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Blend the Greens: Transfer the kale to a food processor along with the drained peas, basil, and a good pinch of salt. Whizz until the mixture is roughly chopped and vibrant in color.
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Add Texture and Flavor: Add the toasted walnuts, crushed garlic, and parmesan cheese to the food processor. Give it another whizz to combine all those delicious flavors.
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Incorporate Olive Oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a creamy consistency. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste!
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Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the wholewheat spaghetti for 2 minutes less than the package instructions recommend. Reserve a large ladleful of the cooking water before draining the pasta.
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Combine Pasta and Pesto: Add a little of the reserved pasta water to the pesto in the food processor and whizz until it’s fully combined. This will help loosen it up and ensure it coats the pasta perfectly.
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Toss Everything Together: In a large serving bowl, toss the pesto, cooked spaghetti, and chilli flakes together. Add fresh lemon juice to taste and more reserved pasta water if you want a looser, silkier texture.
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Serve and Enjoy: Dish out the pasta into bowls and top with extra grated parmesan and chilli flakes, if desired.
Optional: Garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These wholewheat pasta with kale, pea and walnut pesto are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the pesto up to 3 days in advance—just blend the peas, kale, basil, walnuts, garlic, and parmesan, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the vibrant green color, drizzle a little olive oil on top before sealing. You can cook the wholewheat spaghetti ahead of time as well—just let it cool and store it separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful meal, simply reheat the pasta, toss it with the pesto, and add a splash of reserved pasta water for a creamy finish. Enjoy your homemade magic with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Wholewheat Pasta with Kale, Pea and Walnut Pesto?
As you savor each bite of this vibrant dish, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your meal experience.
- Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread complements the creamy pesto, adding a satisfying texture to balance your pasta.
- Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette will contrast beautifully with the rich flavors of the pasta, cleansing the palate with each forkful.
- Grilled Chicken: Tender pieces of grilled chicken add a hearty protein boost, making your dinner feel wholesome and filling. Their grilled flavor pairs nicely with the fresh pesto.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal vegetables provide a perfect sweet and savory side, enhancing the natural earthiness of the kale and peas.
- Lemon Tart: A slice of tangy lemon tart offers a refreshing, bright finish to the meal, echoing the zest from the dish and leaving your palate refreshed.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay will harmonize well with the richness of the pesto while cutting through the creaminess, complementing the entire experience beautifully.
- Crusty Ciabatta: Serve with warm ciabatta bread for dipping, letting guests enjoy the textured crust alongside the silky pasta, enhancing the meal’s comforting feel.
- Chili Flakes: Offer extra chili flakes on the side to let everyone spice up their plates, adding a personalized touch that caters to different heat levels!
- Parmesan Crisps: Crunchy, homemade parmesan crisps can serve as an elegant snack alongside, highlighting the cheese in the main dish while lending a delightful crunch.
- Iced Herbal Tea: A refreshing glass of iced herbal tea adds a cool, subtly sweet note that complements the meal without overwhelming the vibrant flavors.
Wholewheat Pasta with Kale, Pea and Walnut Pesto Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these exciting twists!
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Nut-Free: Swap walnuts with sunflower seeds for a nut allergy-friendly option that still offers crunch.
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Vegan: Replace Parmigiano Reggiano with nutritional yeast, adding a cheesy flavor without dairy—a great vegan alternative.
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Extra Greens: Incorporate spinach or arugula for even more leafy goodness; they blend seamlessly into the pesto.
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Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal. The added protein makes it perfect for a filling dinner.
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Spice It Up: Increase chili flakes or toss in a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick! This subtle heat keeps things interesting.
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Zesty Twist: Add lime juice instead of lemon for a vibrant twist. The zesty flavor brightens the dish!
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Creamy Texture: A dollop of Greek yogurt makes for an ultra-creamy sauce that takes this pesto to another level.
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Roasted Veggies: Toss in roasted cherry tomatoes or asparagus for a delightful touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
With these variations, your wholewheat pasta with kale, pea, and walnut pesto will always feel fresh and exciting! Enjoy the journey of flavor exploration!
Expert Tips for Wholewheat Pasta with Kale, Pea and Walnut Pesto
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and quality olive oil make a significant difference in flavor, elevating your wholewheat pasta with kale, pea, and walnut pesto.
Perfectly Blanching Kale: Blanch the kale for just 1 minute! Overdoing it can make the greens mushy and dull the flavor.
Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve a ladleful of pasta water before draining. It’s a magical addition that helps to achieve a silky sauce.
Blend with Care: Don’t over-blend the pesto; it should be smooth but still have a bit of texture. This keeps the vibrant character of your ingredients.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning and lemon juice incrementally. This helps balance flavors just right for your palate!
Customize Your Pesto: Feel free to swap walnuts with your favorite nuts or add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
How to Store and Freeze Wholewheat Pasta with Kale, Pea and Walnut Pesto
Fridge: Keep any leftover wholewheat pasta with kale, pea, and walnut pesto in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Store the pesto separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Reheating: To reheat the pasta, warm it gently in a pan with a splash of pasta water to loosen the pesto, ensuring it retains its creamy texture.
Note: Freshly blended pesto is best used immediately for optimal flavor, but frozen portions can save time for future meals!
Wholewheat Pasta with Kale, Pea and Walnut Pesto Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe and fresh kale and peas?
When choosing kale, look for vibrant green leaves free from yellowing or dark spots. Fresh basil should be fragrant and bright, while peas should appear plump and bright green. If using frozen peas, check the packaging for quality and freshness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover wholewheat pasta with kale, pea, and walnut pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can lead to spoilage.
Can I freeze the pesto? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing the pesto is a great option for longer storage. First, scoop the pesto into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. You can also pour it into ice cube trays for smaller portions. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or pop it in a warm pan to gently reheat.
Why is my pesto too thick/runny?
If your pesto is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water or a little more olive oil while blending until you achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, consider adding more nuts or grated parmesan to thicken it up.
Is this dish suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! The wholewheat pasta with kale, pea, and walnut pesto can easily accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free alternative, try chickpea pasta or zucchini noodles. If you’re allergic to nuts, substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds for a delightful twist.
Can I add protein to this dish?
The more the merrier! This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for added protein. Simply toss them in with the cooked pasta and pesto for a heartier meal!
Wholewheat Pasta with Kale, Pea and Walnut Pesto Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Put the frozen peas in a large heatproof bowl and cover them with just-boiled water. Let them sit for a minute before draining and rinsing them in cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Blanch the kale in boiling water for 1 minute. Drain it and rinse in cold water, then wring it dry in a clean tea towel to remove excess moisture.
- Transfer the kale to a food processor along with the drained peas, basil, and a good pinch of salt. Whizz until the mixture is roughly chopped and vibrant in color.
- Add the toasted walnuts, crushed garlic, and parmesan cheese to the food processor. Give it another whizz to combine all those delicious flavors.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a creamy consistency. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste!
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the wholewheat spaghetti for 2 minutes less than the package instructions recommend. Reserve a large ladleful of the cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Add a little of the reserved pasta water to the pesto in the food processor and whizz until it’s fully combined. This will help loosen it up and ensure it coats the pasta perfectly.
- In a large serving bowl, toss the pesto, cooked spaghetti, and chilli flakes together. Add fresh lemon juice to taste and more reserved pasta water if you want a looser, silkier texture.
- Dish out the pasta into bowls and top with extra grated parmesan and chilli flakes, if desired.