Lemon Balm Pesto Spaghetti

Lemon balm is a member of the mint family that has a slightly tart flavor and lemon scented leaves. When blended with garlic and oil, and simmered with tomatoes and shiitake mushrooms, it makes a lovely sauce for spaghetti.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 40 mins
• Total Time: 55 mins
• Calories: 588 Calories

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 3 onions, chopped
• 1 (8 ounce) package spaghetti
• 2 cups lemon balm leaves
• 1 (16 ounce) can whole tomatoes, undrained
• 5 dried shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and diced
• ½ teaspoon arrowroot

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine the lemon balm, olive oil, and garlic in the bowl of a food processor. Process until combined but still slightly chunky. Reserve.

Step 2

Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, stir in the spaghetti, and return to a boil. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta has cooked through, but is still firm to the bite, about 12 minutes. Drain well.

Step 3

Combine the tomatoes, onions, and dried mushrooms in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Bring to a simmer, breaking up the tomatoes with the back of a spoon. Cook until the tomato liquid has partially evaporated, about 15 minutes. Stir in the arrowroot, salt, and the prepared lemon balm pesto. Simmer to blend the flavors and thicken the sauce, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Serve the lemon balm pesto sauce over the hot cooked spaghetti.