Rustic Sun Medallion Pasta with Walnut & Dandelion Recipe
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz sun medallion-shaped pasta (or any circular pasta shape like orecchiette or farfalle)
- 1 bunch dandelion greens, chopped (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon slices (optional)
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the dandelion greens: While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the dandelion greens. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can blanch the greens in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to reduce bitterness, then drain and set aside.
- Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. Set aside.
- Make the garlic and lemon sauce: In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine.
- Combine the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the dandelion greens and toasted walnuts. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the garlic-lemon sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
- Season and finish: Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, additional Parmesan cheese, and lemon slices if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 12g