Whole-wheat Linguine with Green Pea Pesto

Whole Wheat Linguine with Green Pea Pesto

A vibrantly colored sauce composed of green peas and fresh herbs dresses up whole wheat pasta. Try the pesto as a spread on sandwiches and crostini.

Serves 6

1 pound whole wheat linguine 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed 1 cup packed flat-leaf parsley leaves (from 1 bunch parsley) 1/2 cup packed mint or basil leaves (from 1/2 bunch mint or basil) 1 tablespoon capers 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil sea salt, to taste freshly ground pepper, to taste 1/2 cup toasted walnut pieces

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it is al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta-cooking water. Drain the pasta, then transfer it to a large bowl.

Meanwhile, combine the peas, parsley, mint, capers and lemon juice in a food processor. Pulse to combine. Add the oil in a steady stream while pulsing. Add salt and pepper, taste and adjust seasoning.

Toss the hot pasta with the reserved pasta-cooking water and pesto. Top with toasted walnuts and serve immediately.

Nutrition Info Per serving (About 5oz/139g-wt.): 280 calories (160 from fat), 18g total fat, 2g saturated fat, 8g protein, 26g total carbohydrate (6g dietary fiber, 2g sugar), 0mg cholesterol, 200mg sodium http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipes/pasta/linguine_greenpeapesto.h tml

Contributed by:

 * Healthy Recipes For Diabetic Friends Y-Group