Tomato-Basil Pasta Salad

I got the basis for this recipe from my cousin's wife, who absolutely adores the taste of fresh basil! This is a great, simple summer pasta salad, with a nice light blend of flavors. FRESH basil is a must on this one!! This salad is great alongside BBQ chicken. Easy, and yummy!! Prep. time includes marinating time.

• Ready In: 2 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 1  lb rotini pasta
• 2  lbs plum tomatoes or 2  lbs roma tomatoes, diced
• 3 -4  cloves garlic, minced
• 1  teaspoon salt
•  black pepper, to taste
• 1⁄2 cup olive oil
•  fresh basil leaf, chopped,to taste (I use about 1/3 cup)
• 1⁄4 cup  grated parmesan cheese (fresh is best)

Directions

1. Mix together the tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, olive oil, and basil.
2. Refrigerate 2 hours.
3. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions, and rinse under cold water; drain.
4. Mix pasta with tomato mixture until well-combined.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve with additional Parmesan, if desired.