Italian-Style Pasta Salad

This is a very flavorful, simple pasta salad that is similar to Antipasto, yet very unique in its flavors and textures. I love the fresh garlic and the mixture of seasonings. Very, very nice for picnics, potlucks, and well...just anytime:)

• Ready In: 5 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 8  ounces spiral shaped pasta or 8  ounces  cheese tortellini
• 1 1⁄2 cups  cubed provolone cheese or 1 1⁄2 cups mozzarella cheese (6 oz.)
• 1⁄2 lb  hard-cooked  salami, cut into 1-inch squares
• 1  cup cauliflower floret
• 1  small zucchini, thinly sliced (1 c.)
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped green bell peppers or 1⁄2 cup red sweet bell pepper
• 1  small onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings ("or" diced, if you prefer)
• 1⁄2 cup  sliced black olives
• 1⁄4 cup  grated parmesan cheese
• 2  tablespoons dried parsley
• 1⁄2 cup olive oil or 1⁄2 cup  salad oil
• 1⁄4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2  cloves garlic, minced
• 2  teaspoons dried basil
• 1  teaspoon dried oregano
• 1⁄4-1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
•  salt
• 2  medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water, the drain again.
2. In large bowl, toss together pasta, cubed cheese, salami, cauliflower, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, olives, parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. In small bowl or screw-top jar, combine oil, vinegar, garlic, basil, oregano, pepper, and salt.
4. Mix well.
5. Pour mixture over salad, and toss to coat.
6. Cover and chill 4-24 hours.
7. To serve, add tomatoes, and toss gently.