Pasta with tomatoes and pesto sauce
Description
The dish is prepared without unnecessary complications. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Prepare a large bowl with ice water and place a colander inside. Add spinach to the boiling water and cook for about 30 seconds. Transfer the spinach to the colander (into the bowl with ice water). Let it cool completely, then drain and dry. Cook pasta in boiling water according to package instructions until done. Reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid before draining. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Meanwhile, prepare the pesto sauce: combine spinach, cheese, walnuts, garlic, lemon zest, and juice in a food processor. While the processor is running, add oil and 1/4 cup of plain water. Blend until smooth, about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper. Add tomatoes and pesto sauce to the pasta, then mix well. Add as much of the reserved cooking liquid as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with additional cheese, if desired. The dish is ready to be served.