Creamy Penne Pasta with Walnuts

Name: Creamy Penne Pasta with Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 7 servings.
Ingredients: 3 cups uncooked penne pasta; 1 small onion, chopped; 1/3 cup olive oil; 3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon brandy; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley; Grated Parmesan cheese, optional

My husband says I'm spoiling him when I prepare this recipe. Crunchy walnuts are a wonderful complement to the creamy sauce. You can serve this as an entree or side.—Cheryl Strahm, St. Louis, Missouri

Ingredients

3 cups uncooked penne pasta
1 small onion, chopped
1/3 cup olive oil
3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon brandy
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
Grated Parmesan cheese, optional

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute onion in oil until tender. Add the walnuts, garlic, salt, pepper flakes and pepper; saute 1 minute longer. Remove from the heat.
Stir in brandy; cook over medium heat until liquid is evaporated. Stir in cream; bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat; cook for 4-6 minutes or until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
Drain pasta; toss pasta and parsley with cream sauce. Garnish with cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

3/4 cup (calculated without cheese): 475 calories, 32g fat (10g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 185mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 9g protein.

Originally published as Pasta with Walnuts in Holiday & Celebrations Cookbook 2011