Spinach, Sundried Tomatoes, & Artichoke Pasta Salad

This is a delicious recipe that I was introduced to through my sister-in-law Lisa, who got the recipe from her sister Emili, who is my Guest Chef today! She is a ball of fun, not only did she send me the recipe, but she also included a snap shot of her in her chef gear! Thanks Emili for being so fun and sharing this yummy recipe with all of us! You can make it as a side salad or a main meal- you can leave it meatless or add chicken... you choose!

Ingredients:

2.5 cups of Orzo pasta

1 big handful of baby spinach, chopped

1 12 oz. jar of marinated artichoke hearts

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1 8 oz. jar sundried tomatoes (I buy the Julienne Sliced ones from Trader Joe's)

1 jar or to your liking, of Kalamata Olives, pitted

1 clove garlic, minced

*** 1 lb. chicken, optional

***Extra olive oil or Balsamic Vinegar might be needed as well if you desire more dressing on your pasta.

Directions:

Super easy. Cook your orzo pasta per directions on the package. While that is cooking, if you are adding chicken, brown your meat on the stove with some s & p & garlic powder OR Lawry's Seasoning Salt & pepper. (I grilled my chicken on the BBQ and because I used tenderloins instead of breasts, it only took a few minutes and it added a great grilled flavor!) The rest is easy peasy. Drain your pasta and dump it in a bowl, mince your garlic, drain your sundried tomatoes and add them- give it a stir. Then, chop your spinach and your artichoke hearts and add all of the marinate from the artichoke hearts jar (that serves as your dressing for the salad). Add your feta and toss! If your pasta seams dry (or is dry the next day because it's absorbed all the dressing) add a little extra olive oil and Balsamic vinegar- perfect!

If you have a recipe that you would like to share, feel free to email me and we'll post YOU as our guest chef!