High Protein Classic Basil Pesto Pasta
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this High Protein Classic Basil Pesto Pasta—a flavorful twist on the timeless Italian favorite. This recipe pairs tender whole wheat penne with a silky, aromatic pesto sauce made from fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, and garlic, blended to perfection with extra virgin olive oil and a hint of zesty lemon. What sets this dish apart is the protein-packed duo of creamy ricotta cheese and juicy grilled chicken breast, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for busy schedules while still delivering gourmet flavor. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra indulgent touch, and enjoy the perfect balance of hearty, healthy, and delicious!
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Ingredients
- 12 ounces Whole wheat penne pasta
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.25 cups Toasted pine nuts
- 2 pieces Garlic cloves
- 0.5 cups Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 1 cup Grilled chicken breast, chopped
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
Step 2
Add whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 3
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto sauce. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped.
Step 4
With the processor running, gradually add extra virgin olive oil in a steady stream. Blend until the mixture is smooth, adding lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 5
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto sauce, ricotta cheese, and chopped grilled chicken breast. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated and the chicken is well incorporated.
Step 6
Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your high protein classic basil pesto pasta!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1081.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3322.1 |
| Total Fat 184.6g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 44.4g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g | |
| Cholesterol 403.3mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2295.4mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 266.3g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 26.9g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 14.1g | |
| Protein 169.5g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 2.5IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1666.6mg | 0% |
| Iron 16.9mg | 0% |
| Potassium 2689.6mg | 0% |
Source of Calories