Shelly's Recipe

GARDEN PASTA SALAD

Category: Pasta Salads

2 cups pasta of your choice
1 cup Italian or Caesar dressing
1 cup cubed mozzarella or provolone cheese
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
3/4 cup mushrooms
1/2 red onion
1 cup chopped green pepper
1 cup chopped smoked ham
1 firm fresh tomato

Cook pasta according to directions. Drain and rinse in cold water. Set aside.

Cube the ham into medium size cubes. Chop the green pepper. Mushrooms need to be rinsed if canned, or washed and sliced if fresh. Seed and chop the tomato. The red onion should be sliced then cut in half again for smaller pieces.

The cheese should be cubed very small. Place the vegetables and meat in a bowl with the pasta, add both cheeses, pour the dressing over and gently mix with a wooden spoon.

Note: If you ask at the deli counter they will give you a section of ham by weight, instead of slices. This recipe should take only about 1/2 lb. You can then chop it at home. You may substitute chicken, turkey or pepperoni.