Sun-Dried Tomato, California Prune and Balsamic Pesto Orzo with Tenderstem Broccoli

California Prunes bring a natural sweetness and velvety richness that transform everyday dishes into something special. In this vibrant orzo pasta with sun-dried tomato, California Prune and balsamic pesto, their flavour adds balance and depth, complementing the tangy tomatoes and nutty walnuts. This dish is a speedy yet satisfying option, perfect for weeknight dinners or packed lunches. The tenderstem broccoli, finished with a scatter of prunes and walnuts, offers a delicious contrast in texture.

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INGREDIENTS

  •  
  • 350g dried pasta or orzo
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil (280g)
  • 150g California Prunes
  • 1/2 tsp fennel seeds
  • 2 small garlic cloves (or 1 large)
  • 80g walnuts
  • 60g Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper
  • 200g tender stem broccoli
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DIRECTIONS

 

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pan of salted boiling water for 9 minutes
  2. To make the pesto, place the sun-dried tomatoes with their oil into a food processor.
  3. Add 3/4 of the prunes, most of the walnuts, garlic, fennel seeds and the Parmesan (cut into chunks).
  4. Blend until smooth.
  5. Add half the lemon juice, then season to taste.
  6. Add the broccoli to the pasta pan for the final 5 minutes.
  7. Chop the remaining prunes and walnuts.
  8. When the broccoli is ready, lift it out and place over the chopped prunes and walnuts.
  9. Drizzle with a little olive oil and the remaining lemon juice.
  10. Drain the pasta and toss with half the pesto.
  11. Serve topped with broccoli and extra Parmesan.

AUTHOR

Peter Sidwell

Peter Sidwell

California Prune Board Ambassador Peter Sidwell, is a chef, baker, TV presenter, author, and innovator of all things food related. Peter has been a chef all his working life and over the years has developed a simple, fresh and innovative way of cooking which focuses on the importance of fine ingredients and technical know-how to ensure the best results. Peter has travelled the world cooking, talking and demonstrating his approach and explaining how and why it works so well for all manner of food offerings. Peter works both with chefs, consumers, food producers and retailers to innovate, create process or refine procurement.Working from his new innovation centre in England's beautiful Lake District, Peter and his team create exciting, attractive and mouth-watering new recipes with digital content, showcasing the delicious flavour and versatility of California Prunes.