Robust Pasta Salad

This is the time of year for delicious and colorful salads.  This flavorful salad is full of fresh herbs and vegetables with a robust Italian vinaigrette base and the perfect hint of pesto for another level of flavor. This is perfect as a vegetarian meal on its own, or paired with your favorite sandwich or main dish. 

The perfect salad to welcome spring! 

A glass of wine and some crusty bread...perfect costars for this delicious salad:-)

 Ingredients

1 16 ounce package bow tie pasta (farfalle)

1 1/2 cup chopped Roma Tomatoes

1 Green Bell Pepper Chopped

1/2 Red Bell Pepper Chopped

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

1 10 ounce can black olives drained

1/4 cup chopped Red Onion

2 Tablespoons Basil paste (or Pesto Seasoning)

1 bottle of your favorite Italian Dressing

1 tablespoon of parsley flakes 

1/4 cup fresh Parmesan Cheese 

Directions

Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook for 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.

In a large bowl, toss pasta with dressing and parsley flakes, cheese and herbs, add basil paste and the peppers, onion and tomato. Serve Chilled.