Linguine with Cauliflower Pesto #WeekdaySupper

     Pesto is one of those things that I really like but it is something that Frank will not eat.  He doesn't like basil so it's something I don't make at home.  When I received Smitten Kitchen's cookbook for Christmas I noticed a pesto recipe that was made with parsley, almonds, cheese, and cauliflower.  I thought this would be a great compromise that both of us with eat.

     The sauce was comparable to pesto but with a slightly different texture.  I liked the flavors from the pepper flakes, pecorino romano cheese, and the texture of the nuts and cauliflower.  It was flavorful but not too heavy.  Frank even enjoyed it and thought it was a great alternative to traditional pesto.
     As you probably know, I am party of #SundaySupper which is all about sharing supper with your family on Sundays.  The idea is that Sunday Supper starts as one day a week and soon becomes a way of life!  Since it's Monday, I wanted to share this delicious meatless recipe for #weekdaysupper. 

Linguine with Cauliflower Pesto (slightly adapted from Smitten Kitchen Cookbook)
1 small head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 garlic cloves
1/4 t. red pepper flakes
1/3 c. pecans (or almonds or pine nuts)
2 oz. Pecorino Romano cheese
6 sun-dried tomatoes, dry variety
1 T. capers, drained
1/4 c. fresh parsley
3 T. olive oil
1 t. sherry vinegar
1 t. salt
1 t. fresh ground black pepper
1 lb. linguine

1.  In a large pot heat salted water to a boil.  Cook the linguine according to the package directions.  Drain, reserving 3/4 cup of pasta water.

2.   Meanwhile, pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it is the size of couscous.  Pour the cauliflower into a large bowl. 

3.  Add the garlic, pepper flakes, pecans, cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and parsley to the food processor and process until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.  Scrape the mixture into the bowl with the cauliflower and mix well.

4.  Add the oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper to the cauliflower mixture and stir until well combined. 

5.  In a large skillet combine the cooked linguine, reserved pasta water, and cauliflower pesto.   Toss to combine and heat for 2-3 minutes.  

6.  Serve with fresh grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese.      

  

     Pesto is one of those things that I really like but it is something that Frank will not eat.  He doesn't like basil so it's something I don't make at home.  When I received Smitten Kitchen's cookbook for Christmas I noticed a pesto recipe that was made with parsley, almonds, cheese, and cauliflower.  I thought this would be a great compromise that both of us with eat.

     The sauce was comparable to pesto but with a slightly different texture.  I liked the flavors from the pepper flakes, pecorino romano cheese, and the texture of the nuts and cauliflower.  It was flavorful but not too heavy.  Frank even enjoyed it and thought it was a great alternative to traditional pesto.
     As you probably know, I am party of #SundaySupper which is all about sharing supper with your family on Sundays.  The idea is that Sunday Supper starts as one day a week and soon becomes a way of life!  Since it's Monday, I wanted to share this delicious meatless recipe for #weekdaysupper. 

Linguine with Cauliflower Pesto (slightly adapted from Smitten Kitchen Cookbook)
1 small head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 garlic cloves
1/4 t. red pepper flakes
1/3 c. pecans (or almonds or pine nuts)
2 oz. Pecorino Romano cheese
6 sun-dried tomatoes, dry variety
1 T. capers, drained
1/4 c. fresh parsley
3 T. olive oil
1 t. sherry vinegar
1 t. salt
1 t. fresh ground black pepper
1 lb. linguine

1.  In a large pot heat salted water to a boil.  Cook the linguine according to the package directions.  Drain, reserving 3/4 cup of pasta water.

2.   Meanwhile, pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it is the size of couscous.  Pour the cauliflower into a large bowl. 

3.  Add the garlic, pepper flakes, pecans, cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and parsley to the food processor and process until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.  Scrape the mixture into the bowl with the cauliflower and mix well.

4.  Add the oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper to the cauliflower mixture and stir until well combined. 

5.  In a large skillet combine the cooked linguine, reserved pasta water, and cauliflower pesto.   Toss to combine and heat for 2-3 minutes.  

6.  Serve with fresh grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese.