Parmesan Pea and Basil Pesto Pasta

Ingredients

- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or penne)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove.
- Add 8 oz of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately PT10M (10 minutes).
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta.

2. Toast the Pine Nuts:
- In a small dry skillet over medium heat, add 1/4 cup pine nuts.
- Stir frequently for 3-4 minutes, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

3. Cook the Peas:
- In the same large pot used for the pasta, bring water to a light simmer.
- Add 1 cup of frozen peas and cook for about PT3M (3 minutes) until tender.
- Drain well.

4. Make the Pesto:
- In a food processor, combine the peas, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, 2 cloves of garlic, and 1 cup fresh basil leaves.
- Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly add 1/3 cup olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper to your liking.

5. Combine and Serve:
- Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat.
- Add the pesto, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add reserved pasta cooking water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Heat until warmed through, approximately PT2M (2 minutes).
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Preparation & Cooking Times

- Preparation Time: PT10M (10 minutes)
- Cooking Time: PT20M (20 minutes)
-

Total Time

: PT30M (30 minutes)

Type of Dish

Dinner

Keywords

Pasta, Pesto, Parmesan, Peas, Italian, Basil, Pine Nuts, Quick Dinner, Vegetarian, Olive Oil

Recipe Yield

Feeds 4 adults

Calories

Total Calories: 1250

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