| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 650 | 38g | 12g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 2g | 15g | 0.2g |
Just one taste of my Fish Mint Pesto Pasta is enough to transport you to a seaside dinner in New England. This culinary delight, an adaptation of a New England seafood staple, combines the freshness of the sea with the crispness of fruit, creating an explosion of flavor in each bite. Packed with subtlety yet brimming with gusto, there’s no surprise why I absolutely love this recipe.
A Culinary Love Letter to My Hometown
Being born and raised in Portland, Maine, I have a special place in my heart for the fresh flavors of New England. Although our region is traditionally acclaimed for seafood, the beauty of our cuisine lies in its versatile incorporation of a broad range of ingredients. Specifically, this Fish Mint Pesto Pasta enchants my taste buds with the refreshing touch of fish mint and the invigorating bite of basil, reminding me of my coastal upbringing. It’s like an homage to my home, served on a plate.
A Dish that Marries Health and Flavor
But it’s not only about taste. The Fish Mint Pesto Pasta comes loaded with health benefits. The fish mint, known also as the Vietnamese fish leaf, is known for its medicinal properties and is packed with antioxidants that can boost your immunity. Not to mention, the other star ingredient, basil, which is known to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits. And if that wasn’t enough, the inclusion of colorful vegetables further adds to the nutritional value of this delightful pasta dish.
Pairings and Similar Dishes
This Fish Mint Pesto Pasta is as versatile as it is delicious. If you’re looking for a suitable side dish, an arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette beautifully complements this pasta. On the other hand, if you’re in the mood to explore recipes with similar flavors, I recommend trying a Fish with Tomatoes, Basil, and Capers – a harmony of tangy, sweet, and fresh flavors. Or, if you’re interested in experimenting with mint in your seafood, a Grilled Shrimp dish with Mint and Pine Nut Pesto would be a perfect choice.
What You’ll Need
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups fish mint leaves, tightly packed
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
Method
Step One
Start by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, add your 12 oz of spaghetti. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step Two
Next, you’re going to prepare your pesto. In a food processor, combine your 2 cups of fish mint leaves, 1 cup of basil leaves, 2 cloves of garlic, 1/2 cup of pine nuts, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, salt to taste, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Process these ingredients together until they’re finely chopped.
Step Three
Then, while the food processor is running, slowly add in your 1 cup of extra virgin olive oil. Continue to process until your pesto is smooth.
Step Four
Now, take your prepared pesto and mix it thoroughly into your drained spaghetti. Once your spaghetti is fully coated in pesto, add in your 1/2 cup of sliced cherry tomatoes and 1/4 cup of diced red bell pepper. Toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step Five
Lastly, season your Fish Mint Pesto Pasta with additional salt and pepper if needed, and serve it warm. Enjoy your refreshing, flavorful pasta dish!
