Ingredients

3/4 cup pine nuts
15 drained sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil , 5 of them chopped
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup water
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 lb fusilli
1/4 lb spinach leaves , shredded ( about 2 cups )
1 cup halved cherry tomatoes ( about 6 ounces )
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
This creamy and flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that's both filling and satisfying. The sun-dried tomato pesto is the star of the dish, adding a burst of flavor that complements the nutty taste of the pine nuts. The spinach adds a healthy and colorful component to the dish, rounding out the flavors and texture. Whether you're a vegetarian or not, this pasta is sure to be a favorite in your weekly meal rotation.

Instructions

1.Start by toasting the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
2.Transfer the pine nuts to a food processor and add the sun-dried tomatoes (chopped), olive oil, water, salt, and black pepper.
3.Process until smooth and creamy, and set aside.
4.Cook the fusilli pasta according to package directions in a large pot of boiling salted water, until al dente.
5.Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
6.Return the pasta to the pot and add the spinach and cherry tomatoes.
7.Pour the pesto over the pasta and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency.
8.Top the pasta with grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

PROS

This pasta dish is super easy to make and packed with bold flavors from the sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts.

The spinach adds a healthy and nutrient-packed component, and the overall dish is vegetarian-friendly.

CONS

This pasta dish may be high in fat due to the use of pine nuts and olive oil in the pesto.
It’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet.

Additionally, if you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe may not be for you.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The spinach in this dish is packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, vitamin A, folate, and iron. It’s also a great source of fiber to help keep you feeling full.
The pine nuts in the pesto are high in healthy fats and are a good source of iron and magnesium. Sun-dried tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants and may help lower cholesterol levels.

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