Best Summer Party Pasta Salad

The garden promises to bring so many wonderful tastes to the farm table. Every summer we behold the wonderful bright early tomatoes and fresh basil. Simply fixed with a little dressing and good wholesome whole wheat pasta is highlighted with olives and mozzarella.

• Ready In: 31 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 12  ounces ziti pasta (prefer whole wheat)
• 3  tomatoes, diced (medium sized)
• 5  pitted black olives, sliced
• 1  spring onion, thinly sliced on diaginol
• 2  tablespoons basil leaves, torn fresh (dried 1/2 teaspoon)
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt (coarse ground)
• 1⁄8 teaspoon pepper
• 1⁄8 teaspoon sesame seeds

• The Dressing

• 2  tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or canola oil)
• 1  teaspoon  balsamic vinegar
• 1  teaspoon red wine vinegar
• 1⁄8 teaspoon celery seed
• 1⁄8 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1⁄8 teaspoon pepper

• Optional Topping Additions

• 1⁄4 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
• 1  green pepper, sliced thinly
• 1⁄8 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Cook pasta for 10-11 minutes. Darin in colander and rinse under cool water. Shake dry.
2. Make the dressing by whisking the olive oil into the vinegar and add seasonings.
3. Place pasta, mozzarella, vegetables, and olives in a large bowl. Toss together and add dressing a little at a time. Mix gently. The dressing can be added more if necessary.
4. Sprinkle additions to top.