PASTA WITH SPINACH PESTO SAUCE

Pasta with Spinach Pesto Sauce image

A healthy, low-fat alternative to high-fat pesto sauce. Can also be made with basil or cilantro.

Provided by Sheila Martin

Categories World Cuisine Recipes European Italian

Time 45m

Yield 5

Number Of Ingredients 13

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Ingredients

16 ounces fresh spinach, washed and chopped
6 ounces low-fat, firm silken tofu
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced garlic
⅛ cup low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 ounces fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
6 ounces fresh sliced shiitake mushrooms
½ cup diced red onion
¼ cup bacon bits
1 pound penne pasta

Steps:

Cook pasta according to package directions.
While pasta is cooking, in food processor or blender, combine spinach, tofu, lemon juice, garlic, broth, cheese, pepper, and Italian seasoning, process until smooth. Set aside.
Spray a large non-stick saute pan with cooking spray. Over medium heat, cook onions and mushrooms until tender. Reduce heat to low, add pesto mixture and heat until hot.
Toss pasta with sauce and bacon bits. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. NOTE: If sauce seems too thick, thin to desired consistency with pasta cooking water or broth.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 450.8 calories, Carbohydrate 76.7 g, Cholesterol 11.1 mg, Fat 6.5 g, Fiber 6.5 g, Protein 25.2 g, SaturatedFat 2.4 g, Sodium 416.6 mg, Sugar 5.8 g