High Protein Pasta al Pesto
Elevate your pasta night with this High Protein Pasta al Pesto, a nutrient-packed twist on a classic Italian favorite that's perfect for health-conscious foodies. Featuring edamame pasta as the base, this recipe is a protein powerhouse, complemented by tender, golden-brown chicken breast and vibrant edamame beans for added nutrition. The homemade basil pesto, enriched with walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a splash of zesty lemon juice, brings a fresh and aromatic flavor that ties everything together beautifully. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is easy to prepare, wonderfully satisfying, and ideal for fueling active lifestyles. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving it fresh, this high-protein pasta is a wholesome, delicious option that proves eating healthy can be indulgent. Perfect for family meals or post-workout cravings!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 300 grams edamame pasta
- 400 grams chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 0.25 cup walnuts
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup edamame beans, shelled
- 0.25 cup water
Instructions
Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once the water is boiling, add the edamame pasta and cook according to the package instructions (approximately 4-6 minutes). Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Season the chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, walnuts, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
While the processor is running, gradually add lemon juice and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil until a smooth pesto forms.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and edamame beans.
Add the pesto sauce to the pasta mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
If the pesto is too thick, add a little bit of water from the reserved 0.25 cup to achieve your desired consistency.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or a sprig of basil if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2033 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 100.0 g | 128% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.7 g | 108% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 18.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 384 mg | 128% | |
| Sodium | 4548 mg | 198% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 85.4 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 44.4 g | 159% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.8 g | ||
| Protein | 223.8 g | 448% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 890 mg | 68% | |
| Iron | 24.1 mg | 134% | |
| Potassium | 3977 mg | 85% | |
*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.
