Wild Rocket and Arugula Pesto Linguine
Wild Rocket and Arugula Pesto Linguine is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. The pesto is made with a combination of wild rocket, arugula, basil, pine nuts, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. The pesto is then tossed with cooked linguine and topped with additional fresh basil and pine nuts. This dish is a great way to enjoy the fresh flavors of spring and summer.
The origins of pesto are murky, but it is thought to have originated in the Liguria region of Italy. The earliest known recipe for pesto dates back to the 19th century and includes many of the same ingredients as the modern version. Pesto has traditionally been used as a condiment for pasta, but it can also be used as a marinade or sauce for meat or vegetables. Wild rocket and arugula are two types of greens that are commonly used in pesto. Wild rocket has a slightly peppery flavor, while arugula has a more bitter flavor. The combination of these two greens creates a pesto that is both flavorful and complex.
Wild Rocket and Arugula Pesto Linguine Wild Rocket and Arugula Pesto Linguine Wild Rocket and Arugula Pesto Linguine Wild Rocket and Arugula Pesto Linguine
Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • Wild rocket
  • Arugula
  • Basil leaves
  • Pine nuts
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic cloves
  • Linguine
  • Salt
  • Pepper
Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Cook the linguine according to the instructions on the packet, usually for around 10 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, add the wild rocket, arugula, basil, pine nuts, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Blitz until smooth with a hand blender or in a food processor.
  3. Drain the linguine when cooked and reserve about 2 tablespoons of the cooking water. Add the drained linguine to the pesto and toss well to combine. If necessary, add a little of the reserved cooking water to moisten the pesto.
  4. Serve immediately topped with extra fresh basil and pine nuts, if desired.
Why It Works
  • The combination of wild rocket, arugula, and basil creates a flavorful and complex pesto.
  • The pine nuts add a nutty flavor and texture to the pesto.
  • The olive oil helps to emulsify the pesto and gives it a smooth consistency.
  • The garlic adds a savory flavor to the pesto.
  • The salt and pepper help to balance the flavors of the pesto.