Roasted Garlic Artichoke Pesto with Penne, Asparagus, Peas and Leeks

The ultimate spring-time dish using all the season has to offer - artichokes, garlic, lemons, asparagus, leeks and peas. This light dish can be served as a main or first course. Swap out sage for mint or thyme. For a gluten-free recipe, use corn or rice pasta.

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Roasted Garlic Artichoke Pesto with Penne, Asparagus, Peas and Leeks
Servings: 8 as a main (price and nutrition based on 8 servings), 12 as a first course
Time: About 30 minutes active; 1 hour total
Price: About $20.20 total; $2.55 total
Nutrition (per serving):
WW Pts: 9
Calories: 319.4
Protein: 14.9g
Fat: 5.5g
Saturated fat: 1.8g
Carbohydrates: 58.9g
Fiber: 6.1g
Sodium: 380.6mg
Cholesterol: 7.9mg

1 head garlic
1 lb artichokes, cut in half lengthwise
2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp EVOO, divided
1 tsp SnP, divided
1 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped
1 lb whole wheat penne
2 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced thin
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1" pieces
1/2 lb snap peas, ends trimmed
1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1/2 lemon, zested and juiced

1. Preheat oven in 350 degrees. In a small piece of foil, put garlic head, 1 tsp EVOO, 1/4 tsp SnP and sage. Close up tightly.

2. In a large baking dish, place garlic packet and artichokes, cut side down. Pour 1 Tbsp EVOO over artichokes and remaining 3/4 tsp SnP. Bake 30 minutes. Turn off oven and leave garlic packet in oven. Let artichokes cool outside oven.

3. Meanwhile, heat pot of water and cook penne until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain.
4. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 Tbsp EVOO over medium heat. Add leeks, asparagus and peas, and sauté 7-9 minutes, retaining crunch. Let cool.

5. When artichokes and garlic are cool enough to handle, trim hearts from artichokes and include any soft inner leaves. Add to food processor bowl. Squeeze roasted garlic out and into food processor. Add cheese, lemon juice and lemon zest. Puree until smooth.

6. To assemble, in a large bowl add pesto, sautéed vegetables and penne. Toss until mixed well, divide among plates and serve warm.