Penne Pesto salad

20 min  prep 4 servings 377 cals

Ingredients

    2/3 cup vegetable stock
    2 cloves garlic
    1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
    1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    2 tablespoons pine nuts
    12 ounces penne pasta
    2 large tomatoes, seeded and chopped

Directions

In a small saucepan, combine stock and garlic cloves.

Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until garlic is soft. Alternatively, microwave on High for 5 minutes in a microwave safe bowl.
   
Add basil to the bowl of a food processor; chop fine. Blend in stock mixture.

Add Parmesan cheese and pine nuts; chop fine. Pesto can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
   
Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling, salted water until al dente.

Drain well, and return to pot. Stir in pesto to coat pasta. Toss with tomatoes.