Description:
Spaghetti tossed with a blended pesto sauce made with basil, garlic, parmesan cheese, oil and toasted mealworms.
Mealworm Flavor Profile:
Toasted and nutty, meant to replicate the pine nuts in a traditional pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
-
½ cup toasted mealworms (dried, edible – about 15–20g)
-
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
-
2 cloves garlic
-
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
-
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
-
¼ cup toasted sunflower seeds or pine nuts
-
Juice of ½ lemon
-
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-
Spaghetti noodles
Instructions:
1. Toast the Mealworms (if not pre-toasted):
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the mealworms and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and nutty smelling. Let them cool slightly.
2. Blend the Base:
In a food processor, combine the toasted mealworms, basil, garlic, Parmesan, and sunflower seeds. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
3. Add Oil and Lemon:
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Add lemon juice and pulse until the pesto is smooth but still textured. Scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Season:
Taste and season with salt and pepper. Adjust lemon, cheese, or oil for your preferred flavor and texture.
5. Serve or Store:
Use immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze in ice cube trays for easy future portions.
Toss with just cooked spaghetti
Serving Suggestions:
-
Toss with al dente pasta and finish with a drizzle of oil and more cheese
-
Spread on toasted sourdough with sliced tomatoes
-
Spoon over roasted veggies or grilled chicken
-
Swirl into scrambled eggs or a bowl of soup for an earthy twist
Learn About Beetle Pest Control
Disclaimer
These recipes contain culinary, food-grade bugs and arachnids, specifically raised and treated for human consumption. These pests are safe to eat because they are sourced from reputable suppliers as culinary-grade ingredients, with confirmation from an Orkin Entomologist.
No live bugs were harmed during the filming of this production.
