Green Bean and Pesto Pasta

Ingredients

• Salt and pepper - To taste
• Olive oil - 1/4 cup
• Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup, grated
• Garlic - 2 cloves
• Pine nuts - 1/4 cup
• Basil leaves - 1 cup, packed
• Pasta - 8 ounces
• Green beans - 8 ounces, trimmed and halved

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, until crisp-tender. Remove the green beans with a slotted spoon and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot of boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy.
4. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked green beans and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the green beans. Pour the pesto sauce over the pasta and toss to coat evenly.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the pasta is heated through and the flavors are well combined.
7. Serve the green bean and pesto pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.