Monday's Meal

The weather is getting warmer and every now and then I like to have some light fare. I've had this delicious salad in my recipe collection for many years and when ever I make it, it's always a big hit with Italian loving Mister. Super easy and very adaptable. You can really throw in the things you like and not go wrong, the secret is in the sauce.

1 pound spiral pasta (or the pasta of your choice)
1/4 pound Genoa salami, chopped
1/4 pound pepperoni, chopped
1/2 pound Asiago cheese, diced
1 (6 ounce) can chopped black olives, drained
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 small container of cherry tomatoes, cut in halves
1 (.7 ounce) package dry Italian-style salad dressing mix
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried parsley
2 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
salt and ground black pepper to taste



Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, and cool. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, salami, pepperoni, Asiago cheese, black olives, red bell pepper, green bell pepper and tomatoes. Stir in the envelope of dressing mix. Cover, and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Now prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Just before serving, pour dressing over the salad, and mix well.