1poundpasta We used colorful shaped pasta for the 4th but Rotini. Farfalle or Penne work too.
8ouncesfresh mozzarella cheese drainedsmall mozzarella balls are best
8ouncescherry tomatoes cut in half
1cupkalamata olives sliced in half
15fresh basil leaves julienned
4largegarlic cloves through a presser. Minced is okay too.
1cupparmesan cheese grated
1/2cupolive oil
1/2teaspoonsalt more if needed
1/2teaspoonpepper more if needed
Instructions
Add everything but the pasta in a bowl and let it sit for 30 mins up to 5 hours in the refrigerator.
When ready to serve, boil the water in a medium pan and cook the pasta al dente.
Strain the pasta and in a large serving bowl add the pasta and the other ingredients you've already prepared together.
Stir it all really well so the garlic and flavors can coat the pasta.
Add more salt and pepper if needed.
Notes
This pasta is best served warm to room temperature.Salt and pepper to taste.You can use Rotini, Farfalle or Penne pasta for this recipe.The garlic gives it a lot of flavor, using a garlic press is the best way to blend it into the pasta.