Spaghetti with Parsley Pesto

Spaghetti with Parsley Pesto
Spaghetti with Parsley Pesto
We love a classic pesto Genovese. But why be limited to basil? Swapping in flat-leaf parsley makes for a balanced sauce that allows you to really taste the nuts, the olive oil, the Parmesan. Sturdy parsley is also easier to find year-round (and more affordable) than basil. Use this sauce as you would any pesto: spooned over grilled vegetables, spread on a sandwich, and, yes, swirled into pasta. Bonus: Parsley pesto holds its vibrant color much longer than the other stuff.
  • Preparing Time: -
  • Total Time: -
  • Served Person: Makes 6 servings
Italian Pasta Quick & Easy Dinner Lunch Almond Healthy Parsley Bon Appétit Sugar Conscious Vegetarian Pescatarian Peanut Free Soy Free No Sugar Added Kosher
  • kosher salt
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan
  • 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3/4 cup chopped fresh chives
  • 1/2 cup unsalted, roasted almonds
  • 4 cups (packed) fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

Preparation Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain, reserving 2 cups pasta cooking liquid. Meanwhile, pulse almonds in a food processor until smooth. Add parsley, chives, oil, and Parmesan; process until smooth. Season pesto with salt and pepper. Toss pasta and pesto in a large bowl, adding pasta cooking liquid by 1/4-cupfuls until saucy. Season with salt and pepper. DO AHEAD: Pesto can be made 5 days ahead. Cover surface directly; chill.

Preparation Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain, reserving 2 cups pasta cooking liquid. Meanwhile, pulse almonds in a food processor until smooth. Add parsley, chives, oil, and Parmesan; process until smooth. Season pesto with salt and pepper. Toss pasta and pesto in a large bowl, adding pasta cooking liquid by 1/4-cupfuls until saucy. Season with salt and pepper. DO AHEAD: Pesto can be made 5 days ahead. Cover surface directly; chill.