Italian Basil Pasta Salad

Servings: 18
Preparation Time: 30 minutes, Start to finish: 1 hour 30 minutes
Internet Address: http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Italian-Basil-Pasta-Salad

1 package bow tie pasta (16 ounces)
2 cups grape tomatoes
7 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
1 medium sweet yellow pepper, chopped
1 small red onion, chopped
1/2 cup pickled banana pepper rings
1 can sliced ripe olives (2-1/4 ounces) drained
4 thin slices hard salami, diced
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

DRESSING:
3/4 cup olive oil
3/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried basil

1.    Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, tomatoes, cheese, yellow pepper, onion, pepper rings, olives, salami and basil.

2.    In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the dressing ingredients; shake well. Pour over salad and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.