‘In Char’s Kitchen Quarantine Edition’ Episode #4: Char’s Sweet Pea Pesto Pasta with Roasted Vegetables

Homemade pesto is a cinch to make. Traditionally, pesto is made with: pine nuts and fresh basil – I often switch it up and use a seed combo (instead of pine nuts) and frozen (thawed) peas in place of fresh basil. This pesto also makes a great “sauce” for grilled fish, or slather on a sandwich instead of mayo!

Char’s Sweet Pea Pesto Pasta with Roasted Vegetables

1/2 cup (125 mL) seeds (*I use ¼ cup (60 mL) each: sunflower & pumpkin seeds)

2 cloves garlic (*or to taste)

1 1/2 cups (375 mL) frozen peas, thawed (*or fresh sweet peas)

¼ cup (60 mL) lightly packed roughly chopped fresh mint 

¼ cup (60 mL) grated Parmesan cheese 

hefty pinch each: salt, chili flakes and ground nutmeg

zest and juice of one lemon  

1/4 cup (60 mL) olive oil 

1 tbsp (15 mL) water (*optional)

3 cups (750 mL) dry rotini pasta (*or pasta shape of choice)

Place seeds and garlic in food processor fitted with a metal blade. Pulse until well chopped. Add  peas and pulse until  finely chopped (scrape down side of bowl if needed). Add mint, cheese and spices and pulse until combined. Add lemon zest and juice. With the motor running – drizzle in oil and water. Cook pasta according to package directions. Toss warm cooked pasta with pesto. Makes about 4 cups (1 L).

Roasted Veggies

2 large carrots, well washed and cut in thick pieces (*leave skin on) 

1 red pepper, cored and cut in thick pieces 

1 tbsp (15 mL) canola oil 

Hefty pinch salt and pepper

1 cup (250 mL) grape tomatoes

Pre-heat oven to 400 F (200 C). Toss chopped carrots and peppers with oil, salt and pepper. Place on a large baking sheet (or two smaller baking sheets) lined with parchment paper. Place in center of oven for about 45 minutes, tossing every 15 minutes until evenly roasted. Add tomatoes in the last 15 minutes of roasting. Remove from oven. Cool slightly and toss with prepared pesto pasta.

Charmaine is the host of “In Char’s Kitchen” on YourTV Muskoka and regular guest on: Rogers Daytime Ottawa, CTV Morning Live Ottawa, CHCH Morning Live, Breakfast Television , What She Said Radio sharing her love and enthusiasm for all things food, cooking and fitness.

Most importantly; Charmaine is the mother of two active boys; Tyler & Colgan.

Charmaine understands the importance of preparing healthy, wholesome dishes all while keeping budget and time in mind.

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