Sundried Tomato Pesto Penne

This recipe is a taste explosion!  I love sundried tomatoes in pesto because every bite is packed with flavor.  This version is simple, but really lets the tomatoes shine.  This would be perfect for a romantic dinner with a nice bottle of wine, or for a quick and comforting week night meal. 

Feel free to make extra pesto.  It is great spread onto sandwiches or added to other sauces.  It really takes everything to the next level.

Sundried Tomato Pesto Penne

½ cup sundried tomatoes packed in oil, drained (reserve the oil)

¼ cup oil from the sundried tomatoes

½ cup walnuts

2 cloves of garlic

1 teaspoon salt

½ - ¾ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

¼ cup starchy pasta water (plus more as needed)

1 box whole wheat penne

1 cup packed baby spinach, torn

1.      Bring a large pot of water to a boil.  Cook the pasta until al dente.  Reserve some of the pasta water.  Drain the pasta and set aside.

2.      While pasta is cooking, make the sundried tomato pesto.  Add the sundried tomatoes, tomato oil, walnuts, garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes to a food processor bowl.  Process until smooth.

3.      In a large bowl, toss together the pesto, pasta and torn spinach. 

4.      Serve warm and enjoy!