Need a quick + easy dinner recipe? Try this Veggie Pesto Pasta, cooked and served in a Le Creuset Braiser. 5.5 qt Round Dutch …
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Veggie Pesto Pasta in a Le Creuset Braiser
Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, look no further than Veggie Pesto Pasta made in a Le Creuset braiser. This delightful combination bursts with color and nutrition, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The Le Creuset braiser, known for its excellent heat retention and versatile cooking capabilities, elevates this simple dish into something special.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti works well)
- Salt (for pasta water)
For the Veggie Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- Olive oil, for sautéing
Instructions
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
Boil Water: In your Le Creuset braiser, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Veggie Pesto
Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine basil, spinach, nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add Olive Oil: While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth paste forms. Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables
Heat the Braiser: Drizzle olive oil in the braiser over medium heat.
Add Veggies: Once hot, add zucchini, bell pepper, asparagus, and broccoli. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
- Incorporate Tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 4: Combining the Dish
Mix Everything Together: Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the sautéed vegetables in the braiser.
Add Pesto: Spoon in the veggie pesto and mix everything gently, ensuring the pasta and vegetables are well coated.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture seems too dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serving
Garnish: Transfer the dish to a serving bowl. If desired, add extra grated Parmesan cheese, toasted nuts, or fresh basil for garnish.
- Enjoy: Serve your Veggie Pesto Pasta warm and enjoy the satisfying blend of flavors and textures.
Conclusion
Making Veggie Pesto Pasta in a Le Creuset braiser not only brings out the best in your ingredients but also showcases the beauty of cooking with high-quality cookware. The vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and nourishing components make this dish a hit for pasta lovers and veggie enthusiasts alike. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta dish is sure to impress—one delicious bite at a time!
