Pasta Salad

We often bar-b-que and have friends over... since I don't partake in the meat, my main contribution is the side dishes. I am known for my pasta salad creations. This is one I created recently when our friends Kai and Renee came over... it got rave reviews!

Awesome Pasta Salad V
8 oz baby bowties, cooked, drained
1/2 cup shredded mozzerella
1 cup broccoli florettes
1 red pepper, diced
6 sun dried tomatoes (not packed in oil), julianned 6oz jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and patted dry
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Kraft pesto viniagrette - as much as desired
Combine all ingredients and enjoy!

Southwestern Pesto

I love pasta and I enjoy finding different sauces to serve with it. This is a twist on traditional pesto. You can make it as spicy or mild as you want by switching up the heat of the salsa.

Southwestern Pesto
2 cups spinach
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup pecans
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup oil
3 garlic cloves

Process in food processor until comes to a pesto-like consistency. Toss with hot pasta.