Monday, October 03, 2011

Fusilli (Spiral Pasta) Salad w/ Fresh Basil & Roasted Red Peppers


This summer I could not eat enough Basil- really can you ever get sick of that amazing aroma? I found a great recipe from Sandra Lee that uses roasted red peppers along with spiral pasta that is really tasty and easy to whip up. It is also one of thse dishes where you can taste each ingredient, which makes for a great side dish along with fish or grilled chicken.

Ingredients
Dressing:
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup mixed fresh herbs (basil, oregano, thyme), finely chopped

1 pound fusilli or other spiral pasta
1/2 red onion, sliced
2 1/2 ounces
sliced black olives
1 (12-ounce) jar roasted sliced red peppers, drained
4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
DirectionsFor dressing: Place all ingredients in a jar. Close lid tightly and shake until blended.

In a large pot of lightly salted water, cook pasta according to package directions. While pasta is cooking, soak red onion in ice water to mellow its flavor. Drain cooked pasta and place in a large bowl. Drain onions and pat dry, add to pasta, Add dressing, olives, peppers and feta to warm pasta and toss. Serve at room temperature.
Want to keep that fresh Basil for use in the winter?

- Gigi

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