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Canadian Turkey Spring Veggie, Herb Pesto and Turkey Pasta

Spring Veggie, Herb Pesto and Turkey Pasta


  • Author: Canadian Turkey
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4
  • Category: Main Dish

Ingredients

Spring Veggie, Herb Pesto and Turkey Pasta

  • 300 grams penne pasta
  • 1 lb turkey breast, cut into 1 inch chunks
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¾ cup frozen peas
  • 1 bunch asparagus, 12-14 stalks
  • 1 tbsp butter [optional]

For herb pesto:

  • ¼ cup parsley
  • ¼ cup basil
  • 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
  • ½ garlic clove
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Season turkey with salt and pepper. Sauté in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat, until browned and cooked through, 4-6 minutes per side. Set aside.
  2. Steam or boil asparagus until cooked through but still a little crisp, 5-7 minutes. Chop roughly.
  3. Cook peas according to package instructions.
  4. Make pesto: blend all ingredients with a food processor or hand blender. Pesto can be made ahead of time.
  5. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before you drain the pasta, make sure to reserve ½ cup of cooked pasta water.
  6. As soon as pasta is drained, toss with butter (if using), 1/3 cup pasta water, vegetables and pesto sauce. Add additional pasta water if pasta starts to dry out.
  7. Serve immediately.

Notes

TIP: Double or triple your pesto recipe to keep on hand. It makes a great sauce to top grilled turkey, steamed veggies or a salad. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days after you make it or up to 3 months in the freezer.