Green Pea Pasta with Herbal Infused Pesto

Ingredients: For the Pasta

• 250 g pasta of your choice (such as penne or fusilli)
• 250 ml frozen green peas

Ingredients: For the Herbal-infused Pesto

• 125 ml brewed green tea-1 teabag Tetley Pure Green Tea original flavour
• 250 ml fresh basil leaves
• 125 ml fresh spinach leaves
• 60g grated white gouda cheese.
• 60 ml pine nuts or walnuts or ½ avocado
• 2 cloves garlic
• 60 ml canola oil
• 5ml salt & 5ml pepper to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Method

1. Cook the pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
• Add the frozen green peas to the pot during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
• Drain the pasta and peas, reserving 125 ml of the pasta cooking water.

2. Make the pesto:

• In a blender or food processor, combine the brewed green tea, basil leaves, spinach leaves, white gouda cheese, pine nuts or walnuts or avocado, and garlic.
• Blend until smooth.
• With the blender running, slowly add the oil until the pesto is well blended and creamy.
• Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

3. Combine and serve:

• Return the drained pasta and peas to the pot.
• Add the green tea pesto and toss to coat, adding a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
• Serve warm, garnished with extra grated white gouda cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Dietitians Note:
Green tea is rich in antioxidants called catechins, which can support heart health and may improve metabolism. By using green tea in the pesto, you add a unique flavour while enhancing the nutritional profile of your meal. To further optimize the recipe, consider using whole-grain pasta for added fibre and additional health benefits.