Pasta with Pesto

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Pasta with Pesto
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Homemade pesto made with fresh basil and pine nuts or walnuts served over whole grain pasta.


Yields: Serves 4-5

Ingredients

For the Pasta
16 ounces whole grain pasta (brown rice, quinoa, spelt, whole wheat)

For the Pesto:
Yield; 1 cup

2 cups fresh basil leaves

2 garlic cloves

1/2 cup rice or soy Parmesan "cheeseā€

2 T pine nuts or walnuts

1/2 cup olive oil

Salt (optional)


Preparation

For the Pasta:

Boil 4 quarts of water and add pasta for 6-12 minutes depending on the variety. (Check package for exact time.)

For the Pesto:

In blender or food processor, mix all of the ingredients. Scrape down the sides as necessary. Blend to desired consistency and season to taste.

To serve:
Mix the pesto into the pasta and serve immediately. Garnish with some Parmesan "cheese" and pine nuts.

Accompany the meal with a green salad.

Additional Tips

If you can't find fresh basil, substitute spinach, cilantro, parsley or arugula.

Recipe by
Karna Knapp