Lunch: Asparagus and Pistachio Pesto Pasta

This recipe includes fertility superfoods such as:

Lemon, Asparagus, Basil

Health and fertility benefits of Asparagus and Pistachio Pesto Pasta

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. We don't have any research on Asparagus as a fertility food yet. Please leave your review below if you are able to provide details about asparagus. Basil is an excellent stress reliever, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients

1 pound thin asparagus
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
1/4 cup fresh tarragon leaves or 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
3 to 4 tablespoons toasted pistachios
1 clove garlic, grated or made into a paste
Juice of 1 lime or 1/2 lemon
1/3 to 1/2 cup EVOO
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 pound penne
1 cup fresh shelled peas or defrosted frozen organic peas
Shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano, for garnish

Instructions

Trim the tough ends from the asparagus. Store half of the spears upright in a glass filled halfway with water to keep it fresh for a few days or until ready to serve. Chop the remaining asparagus and place it in a food processor. Add the mint, parsley, tarragon, cheese, pistachios, garlic and lime juice. Add the EVOO, pouring to a count of 6 (1/3 to 1/2 cup). Season with salt and pepper. Pulse until the pesto comes together. Place in a small container and store in the refrigerator if not using immediately.
To serve, bring the pesto to room temperature and place it in a large, shallow serving bowl. Slice the reserved asparagus spears on an angle into 1 1/2-inch pieces.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta and season with salt. Cook the pasta for 5 minutes, then add the peas and chopped asparagus and cook 2 to 3 more minutes. Scoop out 1 cup of the cooking water and add it to the serving bowl to thin the pesto. Drain the pasta, peas and asparagus and add to the bowl. Toss 1 to 2 minutes to combine. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with the shaved cheese.
Cook's Note: The pesto can be stored for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

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