Shelly's Recipe

TUSCAN PASTA SALAD

Category: Pasta Salads

Dressing:
1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp each salt and ground black pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
3/4 cup vegetable oil

Salad:
1 pkg (16 oz) uncooked penne pasta
2 cups broccoli florets, coarsely chopped
2 cups cauliflower florets, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup sliced pitted Kalamata olives
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
2 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil leaves
1/3 cup toasted pine nuts

For dressing: In small bowl whisk vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper and garlic. Gradually add oil, whisking until well blended. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight to blend flavors. For salad: Cook pasta according to pkg. Drain pasta; transfer to large serving bowl. Add broccoli, cauliflower, olives, red bell pepper, sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Whisk dressing. Drizzle dressing over salad; toss to coat. Sprinkle salad with pine nuts. Serve immediately. Serves 8