Shells with Easy Pesto & Peas

This recipe is easy and delicious.  You can make your own pesto from scratch or I like to buy the refrigerated version from Costco.  Its a great vegetarian meal or you could throw chicken in as well.


Saute 3-5 minutes:
2 TBS butter
8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced (optional)
1/2 onion, diced
salt to taste

Add in:
1 bag shells, cooked to package directions and drained

Add and stir over low heat until  heated through :
1/2 jar Pesto
1/2 bag frozen peas

sprinkle top with parmesan cheese if desired


To make your own Pesto:
2 medium garlic cloves or more to taste
4 c fresh basil leaves
4 TBS pinenuts
1/2 C extra virgin olive oil
salt to taste

With blades running in food processor, drop in garlic and mince.  Add basil leaves and process until finely chopped.  Add pine nuts until finely chopped.  Drizzle in olive oil in a fine stream until a thick paste forms.

Recipe Source, altered by Mel: The American Vegetarian Cookbook from the Fit For Life Kitchen by Marilyn Diamond
Picture Source: Cook Smart