The Fresh Tastes of Summer! – Jazzy Vegetarian

By Laura Theodore, the Jazzy Vegetarian

This supremely fresh-tasting pasta makes the perfect summer fare. Most of the herbs and veggies in this pasta can be purchased at your local farm market, making optimal use of peak produce.

The sauce is of the “no-cook” variety, making this flavorful dish a great choice for a hot weather meal. The steaming hot pasta cooks the tomatoes just enough to make sure that they’re bursting with flavor. I love to make this for company because most of the prep can be done beforehand and the colorful combination of veggies makes for an attractive presentation.

Rotini with Fresh Arugula and Tomato Sauce

MAKES 4 SERVINGS

1 pound whole-grain rotini or fusilli

2 ripe tomatoes, chopped

10 to 15 leaves fresh basil, very thinly sliced

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning or other herb blend

1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt

Several grinds freshly ground pepper

1 to 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 bunch arugula (about 4 ounces), cleaned and stemmed

1 jar (6 ounces) marinated artichoke hearts, drained

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir in the rotini. Decrease the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender but firm.

Meanwhile, put the tomatoes, basil, garlic, all-purpose seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl large enough to also accommodate the cooked penne. Stir gently until well combined. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of the oil and stir gently until the tomatoes are evenly coated. Coarsely chop the arugula and put it on top of the tomato mixture. Chop the artichoke hearts and put them in a small bowl.

Drain the rotini well and, while it is still piping hot, pour it over the tomato mixture. Drizzle with a bit more oil, if desired and toss gently until thoroughly combined. Gently stir in the artichoke hearts. Serve immediately.

NOTE: The tomato mixture and artichokes may be prepared up to 4 hours in advance. Just store them separately in covered bowls in the refrigerator.

Tags: Jazzy Vegetarian, Laura Theodore, Vegan, Vegetarian

About the Author

Laura Theodore Laura Theodore is a radio host and television personality, vegan cook, sustainable lifestyle blogger, compassionate cookbook author and award-winning jazz singer and actor. She is the proud creator of the “Jazzy Vegetarian," and author of "Vegetarian Cooking for Every Day" and “Jazzy Vegetarian, Lively Vegan Cuisine made Easy and Delicious.”