Recipes

Ingredients

Pesto

• 1cup firmly packed fresh basil leaves
• 1/3cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4cup olive oil
• 1clove garlic
• 2tablespoons sliced almonds, toasted

Pasta

• 12oz uncooked penne pasta (3 1/2 cups) (from 16-oz package)
• 3cups Progresso™ chicken broth (from 32-oz carton)
• 2cups shredded cooked chicken
• 2cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4cup julienned fresh basil leaves
• 3tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Steps

1. Place Pesto ingredients in a blender or food processor.
2. Process ingredients on medium speed. Do this for about 3 minutes. Stop occasionally to scrape down sides with a rubber spatula, until smooth.
3. Set aside.
4. In a 4-quart saucepan, heat penne pasta and broth just to boiling over high heat.
5. Reduce heat to medium; cover and cook for 8-10 minutes. Stir frequently, until al dente and liquid is almost absorbed.
6. Remove penne pasta from heat. Add pesto sauce and stir in chicken and tomatoes.
7.  cook over medium for 2-3 minutes or until thoroughly heated.

Optional*

• Add Parmesan cheese
• Garnish with basil

Things to consider about this recipe: 

• Pesto contains olive oil, which can help protect blood vessels and cholesterol levels. The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in pesto can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and support HDL levels. It also contains vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function, bone health, and blood clotting. Parmesan cheese is high in protein and calcium, which is good for bone health. 
  • However, pesto can be high in calories and fat. Eating large amounts of pesto every day can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, strokes, and heart disease.