Pesto Turkey Pasta Food

SPAGHETTI WITH TURKEY-PESTO MEATBALLS

Steps:

• Gently mix turkey, pesto, bread crumbs, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in bowl using hands until uniform.
• Roll mixture into eighteen 1 1/2 inch meatballs.
• Lay meatballs on large plate, cover, and refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.
• Pulse 2 cans diced tomatoes in food processor until mostly smooth, about 12 pulses; set aside.
• Heat oil in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until just smoking.
• Brown meatballs well on all sides, about 10 minutes; transfer to paper towel-lined plate.
• Add onion and 1/8 teaspoon salt to fat left in skillet and cook over medium heat until softened, 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in garlic and pepper flakes and cook 30 seconds.
• Stir in processed tomatoes and remaining 1 can diced tomatoes.
• Bring to simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
• Return meatballs to skillet, cover, and simmer gently until meatballs are cooked through, about 10 minutes.
• Meanwhile, bring 4 quarts water to boil in large pot.
• Add pasta and 1 tablespoon salt and cook, stirring often, until al dente.
• Reserve 1 cup cooking water, then drain pasta and return it to pot.
• Add several large spoonfuls of tomato sauce (without meatballs) to pasta and toss to combine.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste and add reserved cooking water as needed to adjust consistency.
• Divide pasta among individual bowls.
• Top each bowl with remaining sauce and meatballs, sprinkle with basil, and serve.