Mediterranean Pasta, Tomato, Asparagus, Broccoli Salad with Basil Dressing

Ingredients

• 3 cups shell pasta or pasta of your choice.
• 3 cups cherry tomatoes cut in half
• 2 cups small broccoli florets, blanched
• 2 cups asparagus, cut in 1” pieces, blanched
• 8 large basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup minced parsley
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic, optional

Dressing*

• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 2 tablespoons dry grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 large basil leaves, minced
• dash salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and chill under cold running water. Drain well and place in a large bowl. Add tomatoes.
2. In a large pan of boiling salted water blanch asparagus stem pieces for 1 minute. Add asparagus tips and broccoli to the boiling water and boil for 30 seconds. Drain and quickly chill under cold running water. Drain well. Add to the bowl. Add basil, parsley, and garlic. Set aside.
3. In a small bowl or jar combine dressing ingredients. Blend with an immersion blender. Pour dressing into bowl with pasta. Stir to mix well. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

*For a quick dressing, choose a light Italian bottled dressing.

(Serves 10)

Per Serving: 195 Calories; 6g Fat; 6g Protein; 30g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 0mg Cholesterol; 24mg Sodium.

Exchanges: 1 1/2 Grain (Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 1 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates