Walnut Pesto Sauce Recipe, Aka Salsa di Noci: A Nutty, Earthy Dip From Liguria
Walnut pesto sauce recipe is a creamy walnut version that is packed with comforting Italian flavours, nutty and rich. Walnut sauce, also known as Salsa di Noci, is one of the traditional staples of Italian home cooking and has been enjoyed for generations for its simple ingredients and incredibly satisfying taste. Despite not being as popular as basil pesto, this sauce has a smooth and velvety texture that feels rich but not heavy. It consists of walnuts, parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil and soft bread, making a delicious creamy sauce which will go wonderfully with pasta, gnocchi or even toasted crostini. It might look simple, but each spoonful is packed with nutty and cheesy flavour.
This walnut pesto does not feature any basil at all, and instead relies on the whole milk to achieve its signature smoothness. The end result is a sauce that's extremely looks plain, but has a lot of flavour. It is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a quick comforting homemade meal. Dried marjoram adds a lovely touch, balancing out the richness of the walnuts and cheese. Simply toss this pesto sauce with warm pasta and a bit of pasta water to make a flavourful pasta dish that feels so comforting.