ARTICHOKE PASTA WITH KALAMATA OLIVES AND SUNDRIED TOMATOES

artichoke, mascot of SCC
Originally uploaded by aroid

We finally had a thunder shower today. It's been dry as a desert in my parts lately. Both my flower beds and veggie garden needed the rain desperately. A majority of my time has been spent ridding the weeds that keep cropping up between my vegetable plants. Even though my outdoor chores have been my number one priority lately, I did fit in enough time to make my favorite recipe "Artichoke Pasta with kalamata olives and sun dried tomatoes," For father's day this past weekend.
An elegant member of the aster family, It's low in calories and can also lower cholesterol. The artichoke can soothe digestive issues such as bloating and nausea as well as promote liver health.
Below is my recipe for anyone who may be interested in trying it. You won't be disappointed, because this recipe is not only easy to make, it's delicious.

1 box of whole wheat pasta
1/3 cup olive oil (regular or extra virgin)
4 large garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup kalamata olives, quartered
1 package sun dried tomatoes, soaked and chopped
1 can of drained and quartered artickoke hearts
1 tbsp lemon juice 1/3 cup of white wine
salt and pepper (to your liking)
1/2 cup halved grape tomatoes
1 cup chopped fresh basil
1/3 cup grated cheese(optional)

If your a fan of anchovies as much as my husband is, then you can add one can of them, with their packing oil included to this pasta dish. If you are going to add the anchovies, omit the salt and easy on the cheese, because these tiny fish are salty enough on their own.
Cook pasta as stated on the package. Heat oil in skillet and add garlic, heat 'til lightly browned. Add kalamata olives, sun dried tomatoes, white wine, lemon juice, and salt ( or anchovies) and black pepper. cook on medium heat for 8 minutes stirring frequently.After the 8 minutes are up, add the grape tomatoes and cook for another 3 minutes or until tomatoes start to soften. Remove from heat, stir in 1 cup of chopped basil and grated cheese if desired. Serve and enjoy.