SPINACH PASTA SALAD
INGREDIENTS:
- 8 oz ziti (2 1/4 cups) or other small pasta
- 1 cup lightly packed spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup lightly packed basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, quartered
- 2 Tbsp. finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/8 teas. salt
- 1/8 teas. pepper
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 Tbsp. water
- 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
- Spinach leaves
- Radicchio leaves (optional)
- 1 to 2 oz. (3 to 6 Tbsp.) chopped prosciutto or ham
- 2 Tbsp. toasted pine nuts ((I LOVE them so I use more)
PREPARTION:
Cook pasta according to pkg directions. Drain pasta, rinse with cold water, and drain again. Set aside.
Meanwhile, in a blender container or food processor bowl, combine the 1 cup spinach, basil, garlic, cheese, salt, and papper. Add oil and water; cover and blend or process till nearly smooth and mixture forms a paste, scraping down sides of container frequently. Combine the mayonnaise with spinach mixture. Add to pasta and toss till well coated. Cover and chill.
To serve, line a salad bowl with spinach leaves and, if desired, radicchio leaves. Spoon salad into lined bowl. Sprinkle with chopped prosciutto and pine nuts. Makes 6 to 8 side-dish servings.
THIS IS AN OUTSTANDING PASTA DISH AND TASTES GREAT THE NEXT DAY, TOO!

