Shelly's Recipe

SMOKED CHEESE PASTA SALAD

Category: Pasta Salads

1 (6-ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts
1 (8-ounce) package rotini pasta, cooked
1 (7-ounce) jar roasted red bell peppers, drained and cut into strips
1/2 pound smoked mozzarella, Gouda or Cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 (5-ounce) bag baby spinach leaves (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/2 (4.5-ounce) can chopped green chiles, drained
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon pepper
Garnishes: tomato wedges, baby spinach leaves

Drain artichokes, reserving marinade. Cut artichokes into strips, and place in a large bowl. Add pasta and next 4 ingredients, and gently toss.

Stir together reserved artichoke marinade, mayonnaise, and next 4 ingredients until blended. Add to pasta mixture, stirring to combine. Cover and chill. Garnish, if desired. Serves 6