Garlic and Pesto Pasta

Garlic and Pesto Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta*
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pesto
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
• 8 teaspoons grated Romano cheese

Directions

1.      Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. Drain and transfer to a bowl.

2.      Heat the oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until starting to brown. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook about 2 minutes, until lightly browned. Add to the pasta. Stir in the pesto, salt, and pepper. Divide among 4 plates and sprinkle each with 2 teaspoons Romano.

*Use whole wheat pasta for added protein and fiber.

*Gluten free pasta works well too (spaghetti, angel hair, penne)

*Add extra veggies such as mushrooms, broccoli, roasted red peppers, cannellini beans, chicken, etc. if desired.