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Directions

For the pesto: Pick the basil leaves off the stems then rinse and pat the basil dry. Place the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic and lemon juice in a blender or food processor fitted with a blade attachment and blend. Stop the blender or food processor and stir occasionally, scraping down the sides, to make sure all ingredients are combined. Add olive oil and pulse once more. The mixture should still be slightly chunky.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium high heat. Cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8 minutes.

Arrange the spinach at the bottom of a colander then drain the pasta over the top so the spinach wilts.

Add the pasta and spinach to a large bowl, then toss them in the oil and pesto until combined while the pasta is still warm.

Next, add the sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve at room temperature or chilled.

Recipe reprinted with permission courtesy of Cooking with Cocktail Rings.

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