BEST SUMMER PARTY PASTA SALAD

Best Summer Party Pasta Salad image

Provided by Andi Longmeadow Farm

Time 31m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 18

12 ounces ziti pasta (prefer whole wheat)
3 tomatoes, diced (medium sized)
5 pitted black olives, sliced
1 spring onion, thinly sliced on diaginol
2 tablespoons basil leaves, torn fresh (dried 1/2 teaspoon)
1/4 teaspoon salt (coarse ground)
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon sesame seeds
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or canola oil)
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
1/8 teaspoon celery seed
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
1 green pepper, sliced thinly
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Steps:

Cook pasta for 10-11 minutes. Darin in colander and rinse under cool water. Shake dry.
Make the dressing by whisking the olive oil into the vinegar and add seasonings.
Place pasta, mozzarella, vegetables, and olives in a large bowl. Toss together and add dressing a little at a time. Mix gently. The dressing can be added more if necessary.
Sprinkle additions to top.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 287.7, Fat 7, SaturatedFat 1.5, Cholesterol 3.7, Sodium 209.6, Carbohydrate 46.8, Fiber 3.2, Sugar 3.9, Protein 9.4