I love this pasta salad, and so do many others in my life. My sister-in-law looks forward to my making it. She is going to be surprised that I am bringing it to the Taylor Christmas gathering on Saturday!
Recipe:
In a large bowl, combine the following:
3-4 Roma tomatoes, chopped
1 medium red onion, chopped
8-12 white mushrooms, sliced
1 small RED or GREEN bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 stick pepperoni (casing removed), diced
1 pound FRESH mozzarella (Fresh is key here. Look in the deli section cheeses.)
1 1/2 dozen basil leaves, torn (You may used dried basil instead, but it is not as good as the fresh for this salad.)
1 pound colored wagon wheel pasta, cooked al dente
Dressing:
Wisk together the following :
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspon dried oregano leaves
1 rounded table spoon tomato paste
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Pour the dressing over the salad to coat evenly. Refrigerate or serve immediately.
