Are you looking for a delicious and healthy weeknight dinner that's ready in under 15 minutes? Look no further! This Banza pasta pesto recipe is the perfect solution for busy individuals and families who want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Banza pasta, made from chickpeas, offers a boost of protein and fiber compared to traditional pasta, making this dish a guilt-free indulgence. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner cooks. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (8 ounces) Banza chickpea pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade – recipe below!)
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Homemade Pesto (Optional):
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Banza pasta and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of the cooking water.
- Prepare the pesto (if making your own): While the pasta is cooking, combine all pesto ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Add a little more olive oil if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with pesto, olive oil, halved cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a creamy sauce.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves (optional).
Tips for the Best Banza Pasta Pesto:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Banza pasta can become mushy if overcooked. Cook until al dente for the best texture.
- Use high-quality pesto: The flavor of your pesto will significantly impact the overall dish. If making your own, use fresh ingredients for the best results. If using store-bought, opt for a pesto with minimal added ingredients.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese to suit your preference.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the pasta.
Variations:
- Spicy Pesto: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a little heat.
- Sun-dried Tomato Pesto: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes into your homemade pesto for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Vegetarian Pesto: Omit the pine nuts for a vegan-friendly version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This Banza pasta pesto recipe is a fantastic example of a quick, easy, healthy meal that doesn't compromise on taste. It's a perfect quick dinner idea, a healthy meal prep option, and a delicious dish for any night of the week. Enjoy!