Mix It Up Pasta Salad

I love coming up with new salads when the nice weather is here. I love the versatility of a salad; you can really just play around and come up with some really unique dishes. I hate to even call this a "recipe" because you can do anything you want with it and it will come out delicious. Just remember this one simple thing: Pasta + fresh veggies + your favorite cheese+ Italian dressing or a vinaigrette will always = a great salad. I don't think I've ever made a bad variation! You can add your favorite meats like pepperoni, ham, turkey, salami or even bacon if you want. Throw in some fresh herbs and you will not be disappointed!

Mix It Up Pasta Salad

• 1 box of your favorite pasta (I used cavatappi because of its fun shape!)
  
• 7oz your favorite Italian dressing (I used a Greek vinaigrette)
• 2 tablespoons fresh minced parsley
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced in half
• 1 can black olives, drained and sliced in half
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1 orange bell pepper, diced
• 1 seedless cucumber, diced
• one small block of your favorite cheese, diced (I used an orange extra sharp cheddar)

Cook the pasta according to the directions on the box, rinse under cold water and drain. Combine the pasta with all the veggies and dressing and then add the parsley.

This was a very refreshing salad that could be served with just about anything! Have fun with it and "mix it up"!

Enjoy!