A Family That Eats Together: Rocket Pesto with Linguine

Marin Mommies presents this week's guest recipe from Nicole Cibellis, Marin mom and author of the blog A Family that Eats Together, where she shares meal plans and recipes that will please foodies and children alike.

Did you know that many countries around the world call arugula "rocket"? Well, that is how I sold this dish to my son. "Rocket Pasta"—he loved the name and the dish. I use baby arugula, which is peppery like its relatives but sweeter in taste. Using walnuts tones down the peppery flavor and makes it smooth like a more traditional basil pesto. Your whole family will be surprised at just how good this quick and easy recipe really is.

Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 cups baby arugula
• ½ cup parmesan cheese
• 1 small garlic clove
• ½ cup shelled walnuts
• ½ cup good extra virgin olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 lb linguine

Directions

1. Prepare the pasta as per the package instructions.
2. In a food processor, add the arugula, cheese, garlic, walnuts and salt. Pulse until finely mixed together. Slowly add the oil until the pesto comes together. It should be fairly firm and not too oily.
3. Drain pasta. Place it in a large bowl and add pesto. Gently toss together so that all the pasta is coated with the pesto.
4. Garnish with extra cheese.
5. Serve immediately.