Almond and Spinach Pesto with Whole Wheat Pasta and Roasted Tomatoes
This almond and spinach pesto with whole wheat pasta and roasted tomatoes is a quick and easy meal that's packed with flavor. The pesto is made with fresh spinach, almonds, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese (optional), and it's tossed with whole wheat pasta and roasted tomatoes. The result is a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.
This recipe was inspired by a trip I took to Italy a few years ago. I was staying in a small town in Tuscany, and I had the opportunity to take a cooking class from a local chef. One of the dishes we made was a pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes. I loved the dish so much that I decided to recreate it at home. I've been making this recipe ever since, and it's always a hit with my family and friends.
Almond and Spinach Pesto with Whole Wheat Pasta and Roasted Tomatoes Almond and Spinach Pesto with Whole Wheat Pasta and Roasted Tomatoes Almond and Spinach Pesto with Whole Wheat Pasta and Roasted Tomatoes Almond and Spinach Pesto with Whole Wheat Pasta and Roasted Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup almonds
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for non-vegans)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound whole wheat pasta
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a food processor, combine spinach, almonds, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese (if using), salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions.
  4. While the pasta is cooking, toss tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until softened and slightly caramelized.
  5. Drain the pasta and add it to a large bowl.
  6. Add the almond and spinach pesto to the pasta and toss to coat.
  7. Stir in the roasted tomatoes and serve immediately.
  8. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese (if desired) and fresh basil leaves.
Why It Works
  • The combination of spinach, almonds, and olive oil in the pesto gives it a rich and nutty flavor.
  • The Parmesan cheese adds a touch of umami to the pesto.
  • Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their sweetness and caramelizes them slightly, giving them a delicious flavor.
  • The whole wheat pasta provides a hearty base for the dish.