Pasta Al Pesto

8 oz Pasta (preferably linguine)

3 x Carrots, thinly sliced

2 T Safflower or Olive oil

3 x Sm Zucchini, thinly sliced

1/4 lb Peapods

-----------------------------------PESTO----------------------------------- 2 c Fresh Basil Leaves

1/4 c Pine nuts (pignolli)

2 x Cloves Garlic

1 T Olive oil

PASTA GARNISH: freshly ground black pepper and Parmesan cheese, optional '''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''' PESTO: Place ingredients in bowl of food processor. Process until smooth, using rubber scraper to push down the sides occasionally. Makes 1/2 cup. VARIATIONS: - add 3/4 c freshly grated Parmesan Cheese ~ subst. cream cheese, kefir, or Neufchatel cheese for oil ~ subst. walnuts or hazelnuts for pine nuts PASTA: Boil a large pot of water; cook pasta until al dente. While pasta is cooking, prepare pesto; set aside, covered. Steam carrots. Meanwhile, in skillet, heat oil. Add zucchini and peapods. Stir continuously until crisp/tender. When pasta is done, drain well; toss pesto with noodles until they are well coated. Then toss in vegetables. Garnish with pepper and cheese. VARIATIONS: - add 1/2 c Parmesan cheese to Pesto ~ add or substitute other steamed or sauteed vegetables such as mushrooms, peas, or sweet red pepper.