Lamb and pesto pasta

A quick iron rich meal for the family

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Serves

4

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

20 mins

New Zealand lamb mince gives an easy family meal the protein and iron boost you're after. Tossed through pesto-loaded pasta with green seasonal vegetables, it's a simple, satisfying dinner with Mediterranean flair. Serve warm for a comforting main or enjoy chilled as a pasta salad-style lunch. Beloved by families, this is great for meal prep and easy weekday meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil

  • 1 brown onion

    diced
  • 3 garlic cloves

    minced
  • 1 tsp mixed herbs

  • Pinch of salt and pepper

  • 500g Quality Mark lamb mince

  • 200g pasta

    dry weight
  • ¾ cup frozen green peas

  • 1 bunch broccolinii

  • 2 courgette

    sliced
  • 120g baby spinach

    chopped
  • ½ cup basil pesto

To serve
  • fresh basil leaves

  • lemon wedges

Method

1

Cook pasta according to packet instructions, drain and set aside.

2

Heat a dash of olive oil in a frying pan and cook the onion and garlic until soft. Add the lamb mince and break apart as it cooks. Stir in the mixed herbs, salt and pepper. Cook for a further 2-3 minutes then set aside.

3

Add the broccolini or asparagus, and courgette to the pan, cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the peas and cook for a final minute then set aside.

4

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, spinach and vegetables with the basil pesto. Top with the lamb and garnish with fresh basil and lemon wedges. Serve warm.

Tips and tricks:

  • Use whatever fresh or frozen vegetables you have on hand. Courgette, broccoli, and green beans also work well.
  • If you have a few minutes spare, why not make a basil pesto from scratch using the recipe below. Simply combine all the ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
    • ½ cup fresh basil
    • 4 garlic cloves, minced
    • ¼ cup grated parmesan
    • 3 Tbsp olive oil
    • 2 Tbsp pine nuts or walnuts
    • pinch of salt and pepper

Nutrition Information per Serving (433g)

This nutrition analysis is based on 4 serves.

Energy2489kJ (595 kcal)
Protein39.6g
Total Fat28.5g
Saturated Fat8.1g
Carbohydrate40.8g
Dietary Fibre8.8g
Sodium372mg
Iron4.5mg
Zinc5.7mg
Vitamin B121.6µg