artichoke-pesto penne pasta salad

So often when I get groceries I let the veggies go bad if I don't get them all prepped before the craziness of the work week begins. I try to slice and dice everything up for veggie sandwiches and make a side that makes lunch assembly in the morning as easy as possible. This week the side is a pesto pasta salad that is fantastic. Pine nuts are very pricey but you could replace them with walnuts if you're feeling frugal, this would be a tasty dinner on its own, too.

artichoke-pesto penne pasta salad
1 package whole wheat penne
4 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup olive oil
1 cup pine nuts
1 handful baby spinach
2 handfuls fresh basil leaves
1 tbsp nutritional yeast
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 can artichoke hearts
salt and pepper to taste

Cook the penne according to the package directions, drain, and rinse with cool water.

Sautee the garlic in a bit of olive oil until it starts to brown. Turn off the heat and toss in the pine nuts for just a minute. Put the garlic, nuts, basil, spinach, nutritional yeast, and lemon into your food processor and blend until smooth.

Drain and quarter the artichokes, mix them with the penne, and pesto. Add salt and pepper to taste. Chill and enjoy!