10 mins
10 mins
Serves 6

Gemelli & Asparagus with Watercress Pesto


Perfect for hot summer days, this lovely summer pasta is fresh, light and healthy.
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Ingredients

  • 1 pkg Italpasta Artisan Gemelli
  • 1/2 lb asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces
  • 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, whole
  • 1 1/2 cups watercress, packed
  • 1/2 cup packed fresh parsley, chopped and divided
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/4 cup Pecorino cheese, grated
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved

Instructions

  • Cook pasta according to package directions, adding asparagus in the last 2 minutes of cooking time. Drain and refresh under cold running water; drain well and set aside.
  • In food processor, pulse 1/4 cup (60 mL) walnuts and garlic until finely ground. Add watercress, half of the parsley, olive oil, lemon zest, salt and pepper; pulse until smooth. Stir in Pecorino and Parmesan until blended.
  • In bowl, toss together pasta, asparagus and watercress pesto. Serve at room temperature or refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to serve chilled.
  • Just before serving, garnish with shaved Parmesan, and remaining walnuts and parsley.
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Tips

Serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Nutritional Analysis

Calories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 64gProtein: 17gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 460mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3g