1 lb. rotini or rotelle pasta, uncooked 1 (7 oz.) can sm. pitted ripe olives, drained and halved 1 lg. red onion, coarsely chopped 2 med. tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped 3/4 c. roasted sunflower nuts 1 lg. unpeeled cucumber, coarsely chopped PESTO SAUCE: 2 c. fresh basil leaves 1/2 c. olive oil 2 tbsp. pine nuts or walnuts 1 clove garlic 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan cheese cook pasta according to package directions; drain and chill. Combine with remaining ingredients. Toss with Pesto Sauce. PESTO SAUCE: Combine basil, oil, nuts, garlic, and salt in food processor or blender, process, scraping down sides until well blended. By hand, blend in cheese. |