Instructions

Bring a large, heavy pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
†
Add the pasta and return to a low boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook pasta according to the package directions, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Donít overcook!
†
Using oven mitts or pot holders, drain the pasta in a colander set in the sink, pouring away from you. Rinse with cold water until the pasta is cool and allow to drain in the sink for 10 minutes.
†
Place the pasta in a large mixing bowl.
†
Toss with the remaining ingredients, stirring well with a large wooden spoon.
†
If desired, add optional ingredients (below).
†
Serve at room temperature or cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
†
Yield: About 10 cups, serving 10 to 12
†
Optional Accompaniments:
Cherry tomatoes
Chopped tomatoes
Blanched asparagus
Other cheeses, such as goat † cheese and feta cheese
Chopped black olives
Chopped sun-dried tomatoes
Artichoke hearts
Cooked and drained white beans or green peas
Red or green bell peppers, chopped, sliced, or roasted
Thinly sliced red onion