Spinach and Pesto Pasta

INGREDIENTS

* 1 tablespoon minced garlic
* 16 ounces fresh spinach, washed & chopped
* 6 ounces low-fat, firm silken tofu
* 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
* 1/8 cup low-sodium chicken broth
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 1/2 cup diced red onion
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 10 ounces fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
* 6 ounces fresh sliced shiitake mushrooms
* 1/4 cup bacon bits
* 1 pound penne pasta


DIRECTIONS

* Cook the pasta according to package directions.
* While pasta is cooking, in food processor or blender, combine spinach, tofu, lemon juice, garlic, broth, cheese, pepper, and Italian seasoning, process until smooth. Set aside.
* Spray a large non-stick saute pan with cooking spray. Over medium heat, cook onions and mushrooms until tender. Reduce heat to low, add pesto mixture and heat until hot.
* Toss pasta with sauce &bacon bits. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Note that if sauce seems very thick, thin to desired consistency with pasta cooking water or broth.

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