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)
INSTRUCTIONS
Roast the Vegetables:
- Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto:
- 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.
- 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:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Combine the Ingredients:
- 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.
- Gently fold in the chopped fresh basil and parsley, reserving some for garnish.
Serve:
- Divide the vegan Mediterranean pasta among serving plates.
- Garnish with the reserved fresh herbs and a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- 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.