Pasta Pesto

This Halal Japanese Pasta Pesto combines the vibrant flavors of fresh basil with a unique touch of umami from miso, creating a delightful fusion dish. It's a quick and easy meal that brings together Italian and Japanese culinary elements for a satisfying dining experience.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti - 200 grams
• Fresh basil leaves - 50 grams
• Miso paste - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 60 ml
• Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option) - 30 grams, grated
• Toasted sesame seeds - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams, halved
• Shiso leaves - 4, for garnish

Steps

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, miso paste, minced garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the pesto. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
4. Add grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), toasted sesame seeds, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
5. Serve the pasta topped with halved cherry tomatoes and garnish with shiso leaves.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 75 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from fresh basil, which may help reduce inflammation.
• Miso provides probiotics that support gut health.

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