Wasabi Pea Pesto Penne

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1/2 cup wasabi peas
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic cloves
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, combine wasabi peas, basil, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt in a food processor. Pulse until a coarse pesto forms, about 1 minute.

3. 3

   Return the drained pasta to the pot, add the pesto, and toss well, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time until the sauce coats the penne.

4. 4

   Season with additional salt if needed and serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and a few crushed wasabi peas for crunch.