Shelly's Recipe

PASTA SALAD WITH FRESH BASIL, TOMATO AND PARMESAN

Category: Pasta Salads

8 oz radiatore (crinkled curls) or other fancifully shaped pasta
1/3 cup good olive oil
4 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 cup firmly packed chopped fresh basil leaves
2 cup chopped ripe plum tomatoes
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan
Salt to taste
Fresh basil leaves (garnish)

Cook pasta in 3 quarts boiling water until very al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil and lemon juice. Cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to coat thoroughly. Add chopped basil, tomatoes, cheese, salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly, but gently. Garnish with basil leaves. Serves 5-6 as a salad.

This is best with a crisp flavorful white such as a Sauvignon Blanc, a good Pinot Grigio or a dry style Chardonnay.