Tomato Pesto Penne Pasta with Smoked Gouda (and chicken)!

I’m not a big pasta person.  I’m not huge fan of Italian food either.  Exceptions include pizza, veal, spaghetti, prosciutto and a few other things.  But, if the dish is light and tomato based, I am willing to give it a whirl.  This dish is a take on a SELF recipe. It is easy and delicious and healthy for you! Packed full of protein and whole grain pasta. What’s not to love?

Ingredients:

1/3 cup toasted almonds

2 cups loosely packed cilantro (or basil or parsley)

3 oz. sun-dried tomatoes (halves or pieces)

3 clove garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil or more needed

1/4 lb your favorite smoked cheese (I used smoked gouda)

1/2 lb whole wheat penne pasta

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Directions:

1.  Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees

2.  Cut chicken into chunks and season (salt and pepper or I used Trader Joe’s lemon pepper rub)

3.  Cook chicken in a non-stick oven-safe dish and bake for 35 min or until cooked thoroughly

4.  Combine the toasted almonds, cilantro, tomatoes, garlic, and oil in a food processor.  Pulse until slightly chunky.

5.  Pour in to a bowl.

6.  Cut cheese into small chucks and combine with mixture in bowl

7.  Once the chicken is done cooking, cut into bite-sized piece or pulse several times in food processor and add to mixture.  Toss.

8.  Cook pasta as directed on package; drain and toss immediately with pesto.

SERVE!