Spinach Pesto Pasta

Spinach is one leafy vegetable which is regularly used in my kitchen and loved by all .
Pasta which is  staple of Italian dishes is loved by all and can be prepared in different ways to appeal all ages.
When Spinach and Pasta come together along with other herbs they create magic and the results are this yummy and nutritious pesto pasta.
Pesto is sauce normally made with nuts, olive oil, pepper , garlic and herbs like basil, parsley etc.
 This is one hassle free pasta dish which can be prepared in no time.

Ingredients :

2 Bunch ...............Spinach (palak)
1 packet .................mushrooms
1 packet...................Fusilli pasta
1/2 cup......................grated cheese ( I used cheddar)
50 gms ...................walnuts( coarsely crushed)
1 tbsp....................garlic (chopped finely)
1 tbsp...................dry basil leaves
1 tsp......................pepper powder
3 tbsp.....................Olive oil
salt

Method : 

For the Pesto :

Wash and clean the spinach and boil it.
In a grinder add the spinach,cheese,  walnuts , garlic and 1 tbsp olive oil and blend till coarse.

For the pasta :


Now take lots of water in a big vessel add salt and let it boil.
When it starts boiling add the pasta and cook just for 3 to 4 minutes .
Switch off the gas and keep the pasta in the vesset for 10 more minutes.
This ensures that the pasta is cooked Al Dente ( means cooked firm and not soft i.e over cooked ).
Drain the pasta after 10 minutes and drizzle few drops of oil to prevent it from sticking.
Retain the pasta water .

Now heat the remaining olive oil and add the pesto and pasta and mix well .
Add pepper powder and adjust the salt to your liking.
Serve hot.



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