Arugula and Walnut Pesto

Arugula and Walnut Pesto
(with gnocchi)

Traditionally pesto is made with fresh basil, pine nuts, olive oil, garlic and Parmesan cheese, but to me, that is only a template.  Basically the first two ingredients can be changed around in numerous ways to alter the flavor, or use up what you have on hand, depending on what type of greens and nuts (or seeds) you prefer.  I have tried many different varieties in the past but tonight I had some arugula that had to get used up and instead of just tossing it with some pasta like I frequently do, I thought I would use it to make a sauce for some delicious whole wheat gnocchi that I had picked up at the store a few days ago.  I always have walnuts on hand since they are my favorite (and in my opinion, the most versatile) nut so I figured why not try an arugula and walnut pesto?  I wanted to add some protein to the dish as well and love adding canned tuna to pasta (fell in love with that during a summer spent in Italy when I was 20), so I also added in some lemon to the pesto recipe to compliment the fish.  The result?  A healthy and delicious gourmet meal that I was able to whip together in about half an hour.

Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

This recipe is a slight twist on the pumpkin pasta in my All About Pumpkin post, using what I had on hand and switching out the pasta for my favorite: potato gnocchi.  I love the soft, chewy, heaviness of gnocchi, especially on a cool night when all I want is a nice warm, full belly.  Gnocchi is as versatile as pasta and is good with all sorts of sauces, so I thought I would put my freshly roasted sugar pumpkins to good use and make a deliciously simple, and very gourmet tasting meal.  This was my first attempt at roasting pumpkins and it was super easy (as long as you have a sharp knife).  It made the house smell delicious and I know it made a huge difference in the quality of the sauce.  Of course you could easily use canned pumpkin and it would be equally as satisfying.  But for the minimal effort required, this dish tastes like something truly extraordinary.  I hope you try it and serve it to your friends!