Two-Tomato Arrabbiata Pesto Pasta

By Tonya_Speed

Serve this pasta with an arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with lemon juice and extra-virgin olive oil.

Ingredients

• Salt and pepper
• 1 pound spaghetti or whole wheat spaghetti
• 1 cup oil-cured sun-dried tomatoes, coarsely chopped
• 2 large cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/3 cup grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese (a generous handful)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped chives

Preparation

Step 1

1.Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt it, add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta cooking water.

2.While the pasta is working, using a food processor, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, crushed red pepper and 2 tablespoons hot water. With the machine on, drizzle in the EVOO. Add the grape tomatoes, salt and lots of pepper and process until smooth. Transfer the sauce to a large, shallow bowl and stir in the cheese and most of the parsley and chives.

3.Stir in the reserved pasta cooking water, then add the pasta and toss vigorously for a minute or 2. Scatter the remaining herbs on top.