Low Sodium Pasta with Pesto and Chicken
Savor the flavors of this Low Sodium Pasta with Pesto and Chicken, a heart-healthy dinner option that doesn't skimp on taste! This recipe features tender chicken breast, al dente pasta, and a vibrant homemade pesto made with fresh basil, unsalted walnuts, and a hint of tangy lemon juice. Cherry tomatoes and peppery watercress add pops of freshness and texture, while grated Parmesan provides a subtle savory touch. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quick, wholesome meal. With lower sodium levels and nutrient-packed ingredients, it's a delicious way to eat well without compromising flavor!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Pasta
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 2 large Garlic cloves
- 0.25 cup Unsalted walnuts
- 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.33 cup Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup Watercress or arugula
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water.
Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a food processor, combine basil leaves, garlic cloves, walnuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until ingredients are finely chopped.
Gradually add olive oil and lemon juice to the basil mixture while the food processor is running, blending until smooth. Season with black pepper to taste.
Halve the cherry tomatoes.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken pieces, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and watercress. Toss gently until well coated, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
Serve the pasta with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your low-sodium meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2036 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 115.7 g | 148% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.8 g | 109% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 7.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 406 mg | 135% | |
| Sodium | 923 mg | 40% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 77.3 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.6 g | 56% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.7 g | ||
| Protein | 167.2 g | 334% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 446 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 8.9 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 1991 mg | 42% | |
*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.
