Wasabi Pesto Pasta

Ingredients

• 200 g spaghetti or linguine
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 3 tbsp toasted pine nuts
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic cloves
• 1-2 tsp wasabi paste
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp lemon juice(optional)
• to taste salt and black pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, toast the panko breadcrumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden, then set aside.

3. 3

   In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, wasabi paste, and lemon juice. Pulse while streaming in olive oil until a smooth pesto forms.

4. 4

   Toss the drained pasta with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until glossy and coated. Season with salt and pepper.

5. 5

   Divide between two bowls, top with toasted panko and extra Parmesan, and serve immediately.