I am a huge fan of pasta salad and pasta in general actually. I have tried a few different recipes for summer barbecues and potlucks and this one may be my very favorite. It is so simple and you can really adapt it to what you like to eat. For instance, I left out the onions and doubled up the black olives because they are my favorite. I also added a few large pinches of red pepper flakes. I doubled the recipe and this made enough for part of a large baby shower of twenty people. I also made it the night before so I added the extra dressing just before serving and tossed to moisten the pasta salad. It was gobbled up and tasted zesty, healthy, and fresh. With Memorial Day coming up, I just might make it again!

Classic Italian Pasta Salad
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Makes: 8 side-dish servings

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces rotelle pasta or spiral pasta
• 2 1/2 cups assorted cut-up fresh vegetables (broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers, cauliflower, onions)
• 1/2 cup cubed cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese
• 1/3 cup sliced pitted ripe olives
• 1 cup Wish-Bone® Italian Dressing

Directions:
1.Combine all ingredients except Wish-Bone® Italian Dressing in large bowl.

2. Add dressing; toss well. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

MAKE AHEAD: If preparing a day ahead, refrigerate, then stir in 1/4 cup additional Wish-Bone Dressing before serving.

Optional Addition: For a Creamy Italian Pasta Salad, substitute 1/2 cup mayonnaise for 1/2 cup Italian Dressing.