Name: Aegean Artichoke & Penne Pasta Salad
Ingredients: 6 fresh baby artichokes; 1/4 c. lemon juice; 1/2 pound penne; 1/2 c. tomato juice; 2 Tbl. olive oil; Juice of one lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 Tbl. fresh parsley; 3 Tbl. fresh basil or 1 tsp. dried; 1/2 tsp. salt; 1/4 tsp. black pepper; 1/2 c. fresh tomato, chopped; 1/2 c. kalamata olives; 2 Tbl. capers; 1/2 c. feta cheese (optional)

Aegean Artichoke & Penne Pasta Salad

This delicious dish will transport you to the shores of the Mediterranean! This simple pasta dish is very easy to prepare.

Ingredients

6 fresh baby artichokes
1/4 c. lemon juice
1/2 pound penne
1/2 c. tomato juice
2 Tbl. olive oil
Juice of one lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 Tbl. fresh parsley
3 Tbl. fresh basil or 1 tsp. dried
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/2 c. fresh tomato, chopped
1/2 c. kalamata olives
2 Tbl. capers
1/2 c. feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut stems off artichokes. Peel off tough outer leaves to reveal yellow-green hearts. Cut artichokes into quarters. Combine 1/4 cup lemon juice with 2 cups water in a medium bowl. Add artichokes to lemon water and toss to prevent discoloration. Drain.

2. Steam artichokes until tender, about 20 minutes. chill. In a large pot, bring 2 quarts water to a rapid boil. Add 1 teaspoon salt and penne. Cook penne until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.

TO MAKE SALAD DRESSING: combine tomato juice, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parlsey, basil, salt and pepper in a food processor or blender and puree for 30 seconds. Toss together artichokes, penne, capers, olives and feta cheese in a large bowl salad bowl. Pour dressing over and toss well.