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Arugula Pesto Pasta with Roasted Fennel and Ricotta Salata

This easy arugula pesto pasta recipe is a nice break from classic basil. It's topped with roasted fennel, cheese, and can be served warm or cold as a salad.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 2

Ingredients

  • 1 large fennel bulb halved and thinly sliced
  • Olive oil
  • Sea salt
  • ¼ cup pepitas
  • 1 large garlic clove
  • 4 cups baby arugula
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 8 ounces quinoa spaghetti or regular
  • 1/4 pound ricotta salata

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
  • On a parchment lined baking sheet, toss the fennel with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Arrange in an even layer. Roast in the middle of the oven until golden brown and caramelized, about 40 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Set aside.
  • Meanwhile, combine the pepitas, garlic, arugula, lemon juice, 1/3 cup olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Add more oil as necessary. Taste for seasoning. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  • When ready to eat, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and immediately add to the pesto. Toss until fully coated.
  • Cut ricotta into cubes or shavings using a vegetable peeler.
  • Divide the pasta among 2 bowls and top with the crispy fennel and shaved ricotta salata. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

If you omit the lemon juice, the pesto can be made 2 days in advance. Mix in before serving. The roasted fennel will keep for up to a week in the fridge.

Nutrition

Serving: 2g