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Pesto Protein Pasta

Deliciously Nutritious Pesto Protein Pasta for a Quick Weeknight Dinner

4servings
30 min
Easy
Weeknight-friendly timingMacros ready to logFeeds a hungry crew
Pesto Protein Pasta

About this recipe

This Pesto Protein Pasta is a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. Packed with protein and enhanced with a vibrant homemade pesto sauce, it's a satisfying dish suitable for any dinner table. Ideal for those seeking a wholesome, quick-to-prepare meal that doesn't compromise on taste.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces whole wheat pasta
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.

  3. 3

    With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until smooth.

  4. 4

    Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  5. 5

    Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

  6. 6

    Stir in cooked chicken, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

  7. 7

    Add pasta to the skillet and toss with the pesto until well coated.

  8. 8

    Season with salt and pepper, serve immediately.

Chef's tip

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein, such as tofu or chickpeas.

Sources