INGREDIENTS

• 8 oz (225g) brown rice elbows
• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 1 hour
• 2 cups baby spinach leaves
• Cup Broccoli florets
• Cup Artichokes cut in quarters
• 1 Red Bell pepper quartered
• 1 Cup of Baby Bella Mushrooms
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Roast the Vegetables:

1. Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto:
   1. In a food processor, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, basil, parsley, capers, minced garlic, toasted pine nuts (or almonds), nutritional yeast (if using), and extra-virgin olive oil.
   2. Pulse until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture forms a chunky pesto consistency. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), adjusting to your taste preferences.

   Cook the Pasta:

   1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   2. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

   Combine the Ingredients:

   1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked penne pasta with the sun-dried tomato pesto until the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
   2. Gently fold in the chopped fresh basil and parsley, reserving some for garnish.

   Serve:

   1. Divide the vegan Mediterranean pasta among serving plates.
   2. Garnish with the reserved fresh herbs and a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan cheese, if desired.
   3. Enjoy your vibrant and enticing Vegan Mediterranean Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto. Immerse yourself in the flavors of the Mediterranean as you savor every bite of this wholesome and delicious dish.

   Note: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, such as roasted red bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or chickpeas. Adjust the seasonings and quantities according to your taste preferences.