Shelly's Recipe

SPICY PASTA SALAD WITH SMOKED GOUDA, TOMATOES, AND BASIL

Category: Pasta Salads

12 ounces pkg mostaccioli
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup whole milk
4 tablespoons white vinegar
1-1/2 teaspoon adobo sauce from Chipotle Peppers (or one minced chipotle pepper)
1/2 teaspoon salt
Ground black pepper to taste
10 ounces, weight grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise
1/2 pound smoked gouda cheese, cut into small cubes
24 whole basil leaves (chiffonade)

Cook pasta until done. Drain and rinse in cold water until no longer hot. Set aside.

Mix mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, salt, pepper, and adobo in a small bowl.

In a large bowl, stir together pasta, dressing, halved tomatoes, and cubed Gouda. Taste for seasonings, adding more salt and pepper if needed, and even an extra teaspoons or two of vinegar if necessary. Stir in basil at the end. Refrigerate for a couple of hours before serving. Servings: 8