Budget Friendly Pasta and Pesto (30 Minutes, One Pot)
This meal is budget friendly, quick and easy. It combines carbohydrates, vegetable and protein in a simple one pot. One pot recipe means it easier to clean up but also quick to make.
Equipment
- sauce pan
Ingredients
- 250 g macaroni pasta
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup frozen peas and sweetcorn
- 100 g diced ham
- salt and pepper to taste
- grated parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni pasta according to the packet instructions until al dente.
- Add the frozen peas and sweetcorn to the pan and cook until they're tender and bright green. Drain off the water.
- Add in the ham chopped in pieces (I used scissors to make it easy), then add the pesto sauce mixture and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and warmed through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Ingredient Swap Ideas:
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, for a change of texture. I used macaroni as it cooks quickly.
- Swap the ham for other proteins, such as cooked chicken or bacon.
- Add some cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers to the pan for extra flavour and colour.
- Try using different types of sauce, such as tomato sauce or cream sauce, for a unique flavour.
- A simple green salad or a handful of mixed greens for a fresh contrast.
- A side of garlic bread or Ciabatta for a more filling meal.
- A bowl of crudités, such as carrot sticks or cucumber slices, for a crunchy addition.
- This pesto pasta dish is a perfect combination of flavours and textures, the creamy pesto sauce, the tender pasta, and the sweet peas and sweetcorn all come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. It's super simple and fits great within a budget.