Mediterranean Pesto Pasta Bowl

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (such as penne or fusilli)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mediterranean Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mediterranean Pesto:

• In a food processor, combine the spinach leaves, basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted walnuts, garlic cloves, and lemon juice.
• Pulse until the ingredients are roughly chopped.
• With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta:

• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Assemble the Mediterranean Pesto Pasta Bowl:

• In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the Mediterranean pesto until it is evenly coated.
• Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. Gently toss to combine.
• Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top of the pasta bowl.

4. Serve:

• Divide the Mediterranean Pesto Pasta Bowl into serving bowls.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Pesto Pasta Bowl:

• You can customize this recipe by adding other Mediterranean ingredients such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Toasting the pine nuts and walnuts before adding them to the pesto will enhance their flavor.
• Feel free to adjust the consistency of the pesto by adding more olive oil if needed.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice according to your preference.
• This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Enjoy!