High Protein Classic Basil Pesto Pasta
Elevate your classic pasta night with this **High Protein Classic Basil Pesto Pasta**, a nutritious twist on a timeless favorite! Featuring whole wheat penne for added fiber, a vibrant homemade pesto bursting with fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, and zesty lemon juice, this recipe is a symphony of bold flavors. The addition of creamy ricotta cheese and tender, protein-packed grilled chicken transforms it into a satisfying meal that’s perfect for dinner, meal prep, or post-workout recovery. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish combines rich Italian-inspired indulgence with health-conscious ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights and fitness enthusiasts alike. Garnish with extra Parmesan for the ultimate finishing touch!
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Recipe Information
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
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
Add whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
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.
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.
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.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your high protein classic basil pesto pasta!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3322 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 184.6 g | 237% | |
| Saturated Fat | 44.4 g | 222% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 403 mg | 134% | |
| Sodium | 2295 mg | 100% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 266.3 g | 97% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 26.9 g | 96% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.1 g | ||
| Protein | 169.5 g | 339% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1667 mg | 128% | |
| Iron | 16.9 mg | 94% | |
| Potassium | 2690 mg | 57% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
