This Simple Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto brings together earthy mushrooms and a rich, nutty pesto in one comforting, flavorful dish. The deep golden-brown mushrooms, sautéed in butter, add a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the fresh walnut pesto, creating a balanced dish that’s simple yet indulgent.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something a bit more special to impress your guests, this penne pasta delivers. With just a few high-quality ingredients, you can enjoy an elegant meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for fall. Serve it as is or with a poached egg on top for a delicious twist!
Full Recipe:
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 16 ounces fresh sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup grated or shaved Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, for topping
For the Walnut Pesto
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1 1/2 cups packed greens (spinach or basil)
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Toast the walnuts in a small sauté pan over low heat with no butter or oil until fragrant and toasty (about 5 minutes). In a food processor, combine all the ingredients for the walnut pesto and pulse until mostly smooth.
- Heat the butter over medium heat in a wide skillet. Add the mushrooms and sauté for 8-10 minutes until the mushrooms are deep golden brown.
- Add the penne pasta to the pan and stir to combine, adding Parmesan, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley to taste.
- Divide the pasta between bowls and top with a generous spoonful of the walnut pesto OR stir the walnut pesto directly into the pasta before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: ~420 per serving (6 servings total)
Recipe Background & Inspiration
This dish takes inspiration from classic Italian flavors but simplifies the ingredients and process for an easy, weeknight-friendly meal. The combination of mushrooms and walnut pesto creates a unique twist on traditional pesto pasta, infusing deep earthy flavors and nutty richness. The idea is to bring out the best in each ingredient — from the buttery mushrooms to the rich and creamy walnut pesto — for a wholesome and flavorful meal.
Nutritional Highlights
This recipe is a great option for those looking for a balanced meal. The mushrooms provide a meaty texture while being low in calories and rich in antioxidants. Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and provide the pesto with heart-healthy fats and a delicious nutty flavor. Whole wheat penne can also be used to increase the fiber content and make the dish more filling. Overall, it’s a balanced meal that’s high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Flavor Profile & Pairings
The earthy, umami flavor of the sautéed mushrooms pairs beautifully with the creamy, nutty walnut pesto. The addition of lemon juice in the pesto adds a burst of brightness, balancing out the richness from the Parmesan cheese and olive oil. Each bite of this pasta has a wonderful balance of savory, fresh, and tangy flavors. To complement the dish, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables.
Customization & Variations
This recipe is easily adaptable based on your preferences and dietary needs:
- Vegan Version: Swap the butter for olive oil and use a vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast in the pesto.
- Different Pesto Greens: While the recipe uses spinach or basil, you can substitute or combine other greens like arugula, kale, or parsley for a unique flavor twist.
- Add Protein: For a non-vegetarian option, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs well with the walnut pesto. Alternatively, add in some chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based protein boost.
- Cheese Toppings: For a creamy finish, add a dollop of ricotta or a sprinkle of crumbled feta on top of the pasta.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Golden Brown Mushrooms: Make sure to sauté the mushrooms until they are deeply golden brown. This step is crucial as it intensifies their flavor and gives the dish a beautiful color.
- Toast the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts before blending them into the pesto brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor.
- Balance the Pesto: If the pesto is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of water or more olive oil. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice for brightness.
Serving Suggestions & Presentation
- For a Casual Meal: Serve the pasta straight from the pan into bowls, allowing the pesto to melt slightly over the hot penne for a rustic, cozy presentation.
- For a More Elegant Plate: Drizzle the walnut pesto over the pasta in a decorative swirl, top with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan shavings, and perhaps a few toasted walnut pieces for texture.
- Family-Style Serving: Present the pasta on a large platter and let everyone help themselves. Garnish generously with herbs and cheese to add color and flavor.
Seasonal & Occasion Ideas
This dish is versatile and works wonderfully for a variety of occasions:
- Weeknight Dinner: It’s quick to make with a minimal prep time of 10 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Fall & Winter Comfort Food: The earthy mushrooms and rich walnut pesto make this dish ideal for the cooler months, providing warmth and comfort.
- Date Night or Dinner Party: Despite its simplicity, this pasta is elegant enough to serve when hosting guests, and it’s sure to impress with its gourmet flavors.
Origins & Influences
This recipe draws on a blend of Italian culinary traditions, where pasta and pesto are long-standing staples. The use of mushrooms brings in a rustic, earthy depth typical of Italian countryside cooking, while the walnut pesto is a creative spin on the traditional basil-pine nut pesto. This twist showcases how versatile pesto can be, allowing for creativity based on seasonal produce or personal taste preferences.
Cooking Techniques to Elevate the Dish
- Perfect Pasta Cooking: Cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the mushrooms and pesto. Reserving a bit of pasta water before draining is a great idea as it helps bind the sauce to the pasta when mixing.
- Sautéing Mushrooms for Depth of Flavor: Use a large skillet so the mushrooms have enough space to brown evenly. Sautéing them in butter on medium heat until golden creates a rich, caramelized flavor that elevates the dish from average to gourmet.
- Making the Pesto Creamy & Smooth: When making the walnut pesto, adding the olive oil slowly while the food processor is running helps emulsify the sauce, making it creamy and well-blended.
Nutritional Benefits & Dietary Considerations
- Rich in Nutrients: This dish is not just delicious; it’s packed with health benefits. Mushrooms are a great source of B vitamins, antioxidants, and have anti-inflammatory properties. Walnuts, meanwhile, are known for their heart-healthy fats, omega-3s, and protein content.
- Vegetarian-Friendly & Meatless Monday Option: Being vegetarian, this dish is perfect for those who want a meatless meal option without sacrificing flavor. It’s filling, flavorful, and provides plenty of protein from the walnuts and Parmesan.
- Dietary Tweaks for Low-Carb or Gluten-Free Diets: You can easily swap the regular penne for a gluten-free alternative or a low-carb pasta made from chickpeas or lentils for those watching their carb intake or avoiding gluten.
Wine Pairings & Beverage Suggestions
- Wine Pairings: A medium-bodied wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Noir works well with this dish. The Chardonnay’s crisp acidity and subtle oakiness enhance the creamy walnut pesto, while Pinot Noir’s earthiness complements the mushrooms.
- Non-Alcoholic Pairings: For those opting out of alcohol, a sparkling water infused with lemon or lime, or a chilled herbal iced tea like basil or rosemary iced tea, would complement the earthy and nutty flavors perfectly.
Serving Ideas for Various Occasions
- Romantic Dinner for Two: Serve the pasta in individual bowls garnished with extra fresh parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, and perhaps some edible flowers for a touch of elegance.
- Family Feast: If you’re making this for a family dinner, offer the pasta with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra pesto. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast.
- Brunch Twist: For a brunch twist, serve the pasta with a poached or soft-boiled egg on top. The runny yolk will add creaminess and a rich flavor to the dish, making it feel even more indulgent.
Pesto Preservation & Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead & Storage: The walnut pesto can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To preserve its vibrant green color, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing. You can also freeze the pesto in ice cube trays for individual servings that are easy to thaw when needed.
- Leftover Pasta Storage: If you have leftovers, store the pasta and pesto separately for best results. Reheat the pasta gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth to loosen it, and add the pesto fresh just before serving.
Ingredient Sourcing & Substitutions
- Fresh vs. Dried Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms like cremini, baby bella, or even shiitake will give the best texture and flavor. However, if fresh mushrooms aren’t available, dried mushrooms (like porcini) rehydrated in warm water can work as a substitute and add a deeper, umami flavor to the dish.
- Parmesan Alternatives: If Parmesan is not available, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used for a similar flavor profile. For a vegan option, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy, savory taste.
- Seasonal Ingredient Adaptation: This pasta is perfect for adapting based on what’s in season. In the fall, roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes can be added for a touch of sweetness. In spring, you can toss in peas, asparagus, or artichokes for a fresh and light variation.
Pesto Customization Ideas
- Add Extra Herbs & Greens: While spinach and basil are the main greens for this walnut pesto, other herbs like parsley, cilantro, or even arugula add a spicy and peppery kick.
- Cheese Variations for Pesto: Mixing cheeses can also change the pesto’s flavor. Add a little Romano for a sharper bite or some ricotta for creaminess.
- Flavor-Boosting Extras: To add a deeper flavor, try adding a small amount of sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a touch of honey to the pesto.
Bringing Out the Best of Seasonal Produce
This recipe is flexible and perfect for any season. In the cooler months, add hearty greens like kale to the pesto and perhaps incorporate roasted root vegetables. During spring and summer, toss in fresh cherry tomatoes or sautéed zucchini for a burst of color and freshness.
Highlighting Versatility & Effortless Gourmet Appeal
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how effortlessly gourmet it feels, while being quick and easy to prepare. It’s a dish that transforms simple ingredients like pasta, mushrooms, and nuts into something that feels refined and special. The walnut pesto adds complexity and layers of flavor, turning this into a dish that can easily impress at a dinner party or satisfy as a comfort food dish on a quiet night in.
Conclusion
The Simple Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto is a versatile, flavorful dish that effortlessly balances gourmet taste and easy preparation. With earthy sautéed mushrooms and a rich, nutty pesto, this pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or a cozy meal on a chilly evening. Its simple ingredients and adaptable nature make it a go-to recipe that feels both comforting and sophisticated, ensuring a delightful dining experience every time.