Spinach-Basil Pesto with ZENB Penne Pasta

Pesto is a go-to for many when looking for a sauce to pair with their pasta. This ZENB Penne Pasta recipe uses spinach, basil, pine nuts, and more to deliver a delicious homemade pesto pasta. Make sure to toast the pine nuts to improve the texture and flavor of the pesto.

• 12 ounces ZENB Yellow Pea Penne Pasta, uncooked
• 2 cups loosely packed baby spinach
• 2 cups loosely packed fresh basil leaves
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS

1.

Cook ZENB Pasta as directed on package. Reserve 1 cup pasta water. Drain; keep warm.

2.

Meanwhile, add spinach, basil and garlic to work bowl of food processor. Pulse 5-10 seconds until coarsely chopped. Add Parmesan, pine nuts, lemon juice and salt. Pulse 5-10 seconds to form thick paste. Process 10-20 seconds while adding oil through feed tube until smooth.

3.

Combine pasta and pesto in large serving bowl. Add reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, until well coated.