Lentil, Pesto and Pasta Salad!

Another quick delicious salad that doesn't take too long to prepare!

For a gluten free version, simply use a gluten free pasta! I'm a fan of Buontempo's gluten free pasta range which is mostly rice with corn. Also, double check ingredients on jars of pre-made pesto.

You can use a jar of pre-made pesto or use your own.
I would totally be impressed if you made your own!

This is my variation on a Taste.com.au recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 tomato
• 250g penne or spiral pasta
• 200g green beans, trimmed, cut into 1 inch lengths (2.5cm)
• 400g can brown lentils, rinsed, drained
• 25g (1/3 cup) shaved parmesan
• 60g (1/4 cup) basil pesto
• 1/3 cup small fresh basil leaves, optional

Step 1 - Roast tomatoes

1. Preheat oven to 170C. 
2. Line a baking tray with baking paper. 
3. Cut tomato into 8ths or 12ths cut side up, on the prepared tray. Spray with olive oil. 
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until softened slightly. Set aside to cool.

Step 2 - Meanwhile, cook pasta and beans

1. Cook the pasta until al dente...
2. ... Add the beans in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
3. Transfer to a colander and refresh under cold running water. 
4. Drain well.

Step 3 - Combine

1. Transfer pasta and beans to a large bowl.
2. Add the lentils, tomato, parmesan, basil pesto and basil leaves. 
3. Season with pepper.
4. Toss to combine.