Save Brighten up your dinner routine with this vibrant Linguine with Arugula Pesto. This fresh, Italian-inspired dish replaces traditional heavy sauces with a peppery arugula base enriched with protein-packed cottage cheese. It is a brilliant, creamy, and entirely nut-free meal that feels both indulgent and light.
Save This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a nutritious pasta option without sacrificing flavor. By blending the cottage cheese directly into the pesto, you achieve a silky, luxurious texture that perfectly coats the linguine, making it an ideal vegetarian main dish for any season.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) linguine, plus salt for the pasta water.
- Arugula Pesto: 80 g (3 cups) fresh arugula, 150 g (2/3 cup) cottage cheese, 40 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan, 1 garlic clove, 60 ml (1/4 cup) extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1/4 tsp salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- To Serve: Extra arugula leaves, additional grated Parmesan, and a twist of freshly ground black pepper.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare the Pesto
- While the pasta cooks, combine the arugula, cottage cheese, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a food processor. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Toss and Emulsify
- Return the drained linguine to the pot. Add the prepared arugula pesto and toss to coat thoroughly. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve
- Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra arugula leaves, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, and a final twist of black pepper.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
The secret to a perfect sauce is the starchy pasta water; it helps the pesto emulsify and cling to every strand of linguine. For an extra layer of brightness, you can add some fresh lemon zest to the pesto blend. Be sure to use fresh arugula for the most vibrant color and peppery bite.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This dish is naturally nut-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with allergies. If you prefer a different texture, you can substitute ricotta cheese for the cottage cheese. For those wanting a gluten-free meal, simply swap the linguine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. For added variety, consider topping the dish with roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken.
Serviervorschläge
Pair this light and zesty pasta with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio to complement the citrus notes. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad of heritage tomatoes and a light balsamic drizzle.
Save Whether you are serving it for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, this Linguine with Arugula Pesto is a satisfying meal that brings fresh flavor to the table. At 415 calories and 18g of protein per serving, it’s a balanced dish that is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute the cottage cheese with another ingredient?
Yes, ricotta cheese works beautifully as a substitute for cottage cheese, providing a similarly creamy texture with a milder flavor profile.
- → How do I prevent the pesto from being too thick?
Add reserved pasta cooking water gradually to the pesto and pasta mixture until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water helps the sauce coat the pasta perfectly.
- → Can I make the arugula pesto ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the pesto up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation.
- → What pasta shapes work best besides linguine?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work well with this arugula pesto. Long pasta shapes are traditional, but short pasta like farfalle or orecchiette also hold the sauce nicely.
- → How can I make this dish more filling?
Add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra protein and flavor. White beans also make an excellent vegetarian addition.
- → Why is my pesto too bitter?
Mature arugula can be more peppery and bitter. Use younger, tender arugula leaves, and balance the bitterness by adding a bit more lemon juice or Parmesan cheese to the pesto.