Exquisite Fusilli with Asparagus-Mint Pesto
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients:
10
Savor the flavors of this exquisite pasta dish featuring tender asparagus and a refreshing mint pesto. Delight in the combination of vibrant ingredients like mint, garlic, lemon, pine nuts, and parmesan, perfectly tossed with al dente fusilli and peas. A delightful dish that is best enjoyed immediately.
Ingredients
| 2 | asparagus, ends trimmed |
|---|---|
| 1 | pound fusilli pasta |
| 1 | cup cooked peas (fresh or frozen) |
| 1 | cup mint leaves, tightly packed |
| 2 | small cloves garlic, minced |
| 1 | lemon, juiced |
| 1 | cup grated parmesan |
| 1 | cup toasted pine nuts |
| 1 | cup olive oil |
| 1 | teaspoon salt |
Instructions
Preparation | |
|---|---|
| 1. | Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Blanche the asparagus for a few minutes, until just tender. Remove with tongs to an ice bath. Drain and set aside. |
| 2. | Replace the pot with fresh water and salt and bring it to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain in a colander. |
| 3. | While the pasta is cooking, cut the asparagus into 1-inch pieces. Add the pieces from the top two thirds of the stalks to a large bowl. Add 1 cup of the bottom pieces to a small food processor. Pulse the asparagus along with the mint, garlic, lemon juice, ¼ cup of the pine nuts, olive oil, and salt. Mix in the parmesan and taste for seasoning. |
| 4. | Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss together with the peas, remaining asparagus and pine nuts, and pesto. Best if served immediately. |
Published on Aug 05, 2024 by Luminița