She Strengthens

Reimagining Classic Pesto with a French Twist

When it comes to traditional Italian dishes, sometimes a little creative experimentation can go a long way. In this innovative recipe, we’re shaking things up by combining parsley, black olives, walnuts, and goat cheese – ingredients more commonly found in French cuisine – to create a quick and tangy variation of classic pesto.

The Perfect Pasta Choice

Whole-wheat fusilli adds a delightful heartiness and a boost of fiber to this dish, but feel free to substitute with egg pasta if you prefer. The nutty undertone of whole-wheat pasta perfectly complements the bold flavors of this pesto.

A Quick and Easy Recipe

This recipe yields 4 servings and can be prepared in just 30 minutes, with only 10 minutes of active cooking time. It’s the perfect option for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Gathering Your Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups fresh Italian parsley leaves
• 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
• 1/2 cup fresh goat cheese
• 1/4 cup coarsely chopped pitted black olives
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 pound dried whole-wheat fusilli

Bringing it All Together

Begin by bringing a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Meanwhile, combine parsley, walnuts, goat cheese, olives, pepper, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Pulse until the ingredients are coarsely chopped and mixed together. With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil in a thin stream.

Cook the pasta according to the package directions, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining. Return the pasta to the pot and add the pesto, tossing to combine. Stir in the reserved pasta water to create a creamier sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve immediately.

The Perfect Pairing

For a truly exceptional dining experience, pair this dish with a Lustau Puerto Fino Sherry from Spain. This wine’s nutty and olive-like flavors perfectly complement the bold notes of the pesto, while its crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the goat cheese. Serve chilled in small amounts, as it’s stronger than most wines.