Italian Basil, Tomato, and Pasta Salad
1/2 C. red wine vinegar
2 T. Dijon-style mustard
1/4 tsp. black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 C. olive oil
1/2 C. slivered fresh basil
8 oz. dried pasta (such as rotini, bow ties, shells, cavatelli, or penne)
2 9-oz. packages frozen cut green beans
6 medium tomatoes, cut into thin wedges
1 C. sliced pitted kalamata olives or ripe olives
2 C. loosely packed fresh basil leaves
3/4 C. (3 oz.) finely shredded Parmesan cheese
3 T. snipped fresh parsley
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For dressing, in a small bowl whisk together vinegar, mustard, pepper, and garlic. Gradually whisk in oil. Stir in the slivered basil. Set dressing aside. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain again. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan cook frozen beans according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain again. Toss one-third of the dressing with the cooked pasta; place pasta in the bottom of a very large salad bowl. Layer ingredients on top of the pasta in the following order: cooked green beans, tomatoes, and olives. Top with remaining dressing. Sprinkle with the basil leaves, the Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Cover and chill for 4 to 24 hours. To serve, toss lightly to combine.