Shelly's Recipe

SICILIAN PASTA SALAD

Category: Pasta Salads

1 lb penne macaroni or small shells
3 tbsp oil
Sauce
2 lbs tomatoes, cut into 1/2 inch slices, then into V strips
20 black olives, pitted
24 1/2 inch cubes feta or mozzarella cheese
6-8 anchovies, cut up or small can tuna fish packed in oil
2 tsp oil from fish
1/2-2/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Freshly ground pepper

An hour before serving, combine all salad sauce ingredients in a bowl large enough to hold pasta when cooked. Let stand at room temperature, stirring once or twice. About half an hour before serving, bring 6 quarts of water to a boil. Add oil and salt (if using) then pasta, stirring at first to prevent sticking. Cook al dente. Drain well, flushing with cold water to stop cooking.

Add drained pasta to salad sauce in bowl and mix well. Taste and correct seasoning. Add a bit more oil if needed, as all pasta should be lightly coated. Serve hot or at room temperature. (The longer it sits, the more it seems to absorb the sauce so do not make too far in advance and never serve it colder than room temperature.) Serves 4-6