Maxine's Pasta Salad

My friend Maxine never ceases to amaze me with the way she prepares food. Simple and delicious. Her pasta salad is not only my favorite, but it makes a colorful presentation. Serving size, cooking and prep times are all estimates.

• Ready In: 27 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 1  lb penne pasta, cooked al dente
• 1 (6 ounce) can pitted black olives, sliced in half
• 1 (8 ounce) package  sliced mushrooms, fresh
• 1  bunch asparagus, cleaned,blanched and chopped
• 1  red pepper, cleaned,seeds removed,and chopped
• 1  orange bell pepper, cleaned,seeds removed,and chopped
• 1  cup romano cheese, to taste
•  salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (3/4ounce) packet  Good Seasonings Italian salad dressing mix
• 1⁄4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1⁄2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Directions

1. Prepare packet of salad dressing with oil and vinegar, as stated on envelope.
2. Place cooked pasta in a large bowl.
3. Add sliced mushrooms, olives, peppers, asparagus, cheese and Italian dressing.
4. Mix well.
5. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Mix well and adjust s&p or cheese to taste.
7. Serve at room temperature.
8. Maxine likes to arrange some of the colored vegetables on top for a prettier presentation.