Mozzarella Pasta Salad

Serves 8

In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, basil, and red pepper flakes. Add the cheese and toss to coat. Cover and set aside in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain, transfer to a large bowl, and set aside to cool.

Add the tomatoes, olives, scallions, and marinated cheese to the bowl with the pasta and toss well. Refrigerate until chilled.

Note:

Fiore is a shape of pasta that looks like a flower (fiore is Italian for “flower”). If you can’t find it, substitute wagon wheels, penne, fusilli, or another favorite shape.

By CE D. from Hemet, California

I love the marinated mozzarella balls from the store, but the kids thought they were a funny texture. So I learned to marinate the string cheese because it is kid friendly and easily recognized to them. They LOVE this salad!