Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Typical Mediterranean flavors permeate this pasta salad with delightful taste results.

Recipe Ingredients:

1/2 cup extra virgin olive
1/4 cup red wine or balsamic vinegar
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
2 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 cucumber, peeled, halved, seeded and sliced
1 medium red onion, chopped
2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, quartered
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves, packed
1/3 cup pitted kalamata olives, coarsely chopped or sliced
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 (16-ounce) package rotini or orecchiette pasta, cooked al dente according to package directions

Cooking Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in the order given in a large serving bowl, tossing to mixi well. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Best served at room temperature.

Makes 10 to 12 servings.