Spicy Arugula and Walnut Pesto Pasta

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.

   ~10 min
2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine the arugula, toasted walnuts, garlic cloves, and grated Parmesan cheese.

   ~2 min
3. 3

   Pulse the ingredients until coarsely chopped. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.

   ~3 min
4. 4

   Stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste.

   ~1 min
5. 5

   Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the large pot.

6. 6

   Add the prepared pesto to the hot pasta. Toss well to coat, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a smooth sauce.

   ~2 min
7. 7

   Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.