Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Submitted by Abby Girl

"This recipe is perfect for a crowd....it has all but the kitchen sink in it!!!"

 

• Ready In: 25mins
• Ingredients: 18
• Serves: 12-16

ingredients

• 1⁄2 lb penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small red pepper, julienne strips
• 3 ounces pepperoni, cut into julienne strips
• 1 -2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup zucchini, coarsely grated
• 3⁄4 lb provolone cheese (cubed, grated or chopped, or white cheddar cheese)
• 14 ounces artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1⁄2 cup kalamata olive, pitted
• 1⁄2 cup red onion, chopped
• 1⁄2 cup parsley, chopped

• Vinaigrette

• 4 -6 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 large garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon dried oregano
• black pepper, to taste

directions

1. In a large pot, cook noodles. Rinse under cold water and drain well.
2. Combine pepper, pepperoni, tomato, zucchini, cheese, artichoke hearts, parsley, olives and onion; toss lightly to mix.
3. Vinaigrette: In a food processor, combine all the ingredients, adding peper to taste; mix tohroughly. Pour over salad and toss.
4. Chill for at least 3 hours. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary by adding a little more olive oil and baslamic vinegar.