Pasta Salad for a Picnic

My husband and I love to go on nice picnics together. This salad brings back memories of a nice sunny day where we sat along side of a beautiful beach listening to the sounds of the ocean...I hope you enjoy!!!

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Serves: 12
• Yields: 12

Ingredients

• 16  ounces penne pasta
• 2  cups cherry tomatoes
• 4  ounces provolone cheese
• 1  cup  red pepper
• 1⁄2 cup green pepper
• 1⁄4 cup onion
• 1⁄4 cup cucumber
• 1⁄4 cup black olives
• 2⁄3 cup  vegetable oil
• 1⁄3 cup red wine vinegar
• 1  garlic clove
• 3  tablespoons fresh basil or 3  teaspoons dried basil
• 1  tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons salt
• 1  teaspoon sugar
• 1  teaspoon onion powder

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water. Place in a salad bowl; add tomatoes, cheese ( you can also use feta or swiss if you prefer, peppers, onion and olives.
2. In blender, combine the dressing ingredients.oil etc -- cover and process until blended. Pour over pasta mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate until cool.