Penne with Sun-dried tomato pesto with toasted walnuts and basil

Trying to eat soul soothing foods that have some health value can be hard. This pasta isn't so bad. The nuts add protein, fiber and Omega-3. Sun tried tomatoes are rich in Beta Carotein and anti-oxidants. And basil must have some nutritional value -- it is green! If made with a vitamin-enriched pasta or whole wheat pasta you have a pretty healthy meal!

Ingredients:

1 box, 1 lb, penne -- though use any shape you like
1 14. oz jar of sun dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup of basil, Julienned
1 cup of walnuts, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

In a large pan filled 3/4 to the top with water, cook pasta as directed on the package.
With a sharp knife or mini food processor, chop sun dried tomatoes -- set aside
With a sharp knife of mini food processor, chop walnuts -- set aside
Using a sharp knife julienne the basil -- set aside

Heat a skillet and add the chopped nuts. Stir and remove the pan from heat as soon as the nuts start to brown. This process happens very quickly. Keep stirring even when pan is off the heat. When most of the nuts have been toasted remove from pan and into a bowl.


When pasta is done, drain and return to the pan. Add Sun-dried tomatoes and nuts and mix well. Fold in basil and add some salt and pepper to taste.