High Protein Pesto Pasta

High Protein Pesto Pasta

Craving a delicious, comforting pasta dish that also fuels your body? This High-Protein Pesto Pasta is the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition! Packed with protein-rich ingredients and coated in a vibrant, homemade pesto sauce, this dish is a great option for those looking to boost their protein intake without compromising on taste.

Preparation time

10

Cooking time
15

Serves

2

Calories

548 per serving

Ingredients

Pesto Sauce:

  • 1 cup spinach
  • Handful fresh basil
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 3-4 garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp salt & pepper
  • 20-25g grated parmesan cheese
  • 80g light cream cheese
  • 15g cashew nuts
  • 1 lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup or 125ml pasta water

Or use your preferred brand

Chicken:

  • 1 large chicken breast cut into 2 thinner
  • fillets (Approx. 300g raw weight total)
  • Season both sides with
  • Garlic Powder
  • Paprika
  • Italian mix herbs
  • Salt & pepper

Pasta:

  • 110g uncooked spaghetti 
  • 1 tsp salt for the water

Garnish:

  • Parmesan
  • Basil
  • Chilli Flakes (optional)
  • Lemon Zest (optional)

Method

1. Get water in a pot, add a teaspoon of salt then bring to a boil. Add the uncooked spaghetti and cook for 8 mins. Once cooked, remove 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest.

2. Slice your chicken breast the season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, basil, salt and pepper. Makes sure both sides are evenly coated.

3. In a blender cup add spinach, basil, olive oil, garlic, cream cheese, parmesan, cashew nuts, salt, pepper, lemon juice & pasta water. Blend till completely smooth.

4. Next get a pan on medium heat, add cooking spray and cook the chicken for 5 mins each side then set aside.

5. Same pan low heat, add the pesto sauce, the cooked spaghetti, mix till combined then place the chicken pieces on top and garnish with more basil, parmesan and chilli flakes. SERVE & ENJOY!