Monday, June 30, 2008

Three-Cheese Pasta Salad with Olives

16 ounces medium-size Farfalle (bowtie) pasta (about 2 3/4 cups)
1 cup chopped pitted Kalamata olives
1 cup chopped red bell pepper (I used red, yellow, and orange peppers to add color)
1 cup crumbled feta cheese (about 4 ounces)
1/2 cup diced sharp white cheddar cheese ( about 2 1/2 ounces)
1/2 cup grated Gouda cheese (about 2 1/2 ounces)
6 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup basil vinegar or red wine vinegar
3/4 cup olive oil
Pinch of sugar

Cook pasta in pot of boiling water until tender but still firm to bite. Drain. Rinse with cold water and drain well.

Mix pasta, olives, bell pepper, all cheeses and basil in large bowl to combine. Pour vinegar into small bowl. Gradually whisk in oil. Add sugar; season dressing to taste with salt and pepper. Toss salad with enough dressing to coat ( I didn't use all the dressing). Cover and refrigerate until well chilled, about 2 hours. (Can be prepared 24 hours ahead; keep refrigerated.)

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