Ah, California summers. Sunny days, dreamy nights and fresh, light meals made from just-picked ingredients. Actor and artist Jane Seymour takes full advantage of California's bounty of produce when she entertains at her home by the beach. And one of her favorite dishes to serve is a pasta salad filled with heart-healthy pistachios.

A one-ounce serving of pistachios is made up of 49 nuts and contains more than 10 percent of the Daily Value for dietary fiber, vitamin B-6, thiamin, phosphorus and copper, according to the California Pistachio Commission. What's more, research has shown that eating nuts such as pistachios, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.

"I love to serve this simple, delicious and healthy salad at my summer get-togethers," Seymour says.

Cook rotini in boiling, salted water according to package directions; drain. Marinate hot rotini in Oregano Dressing; cool at room temperature. Combine with spinach, tomato, peapods, pistachios and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Makes eight servings.

Oregano Dressing
Combine all ingredients in small bowl and mix until blended. Makes 1/2 cup.