Penne with Artichoke Sauce (Helathy)

Penne with Artichoke Sauce

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
4 large artichokes, trimmed
1 cup water, divided
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt & freshly ground pepper to taste
12 ounces whole-wheat penne, mostaccioli or rigatoni

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring, until limp and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.

2. Cut the trimmed artichokes lengthwise into thin wedges and add to the pan along with 3/4 cup water. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the artichokes are tender, about 10 minutes. Increase heat to high, add wine and oregano; cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Remove from the heat.

3. Transfer about 1/3 of the artichoke mixture to a blender or food processor, add the remaining 1/4 cup water and puree until smooth. Return the puree to the pan containing the remaining artichoke mixture. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Meanwhile, cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until just tender, 8 to 10 minutes or according to package directions. Drain and add to the artichoke sauce. Toss well and serve.