Isn’t it amazing how networking and keeping up with old friends is so much easier now with the internet, Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, Skype, or any other websites or programs that are available? A friend from elementary school, who I haven’t seen for ages but follow on Facebook and Twitter, asked me for a healthy easy pasta salad. Wow–would never have thought five years ago that I would be doing this: posting her request on my blog! Technology is cool, I can’t imagine living without my computer–and internet access!

So this is a recipe of a pasta salad I made for a get together. Great for parties and large crowds, but you can easily scale back on the servings if you need to make less.

Ingredients:

• 3 c dry whole wheat penne pasta
• 2 c grape or cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 1 6-ounce can ripe black olives, cut in half
• 1 15-ounce can artichoke hearts, cut in 1/8th pieces
• 8 oz block of fresh Mozzarella, cut in 1/2-inch cubes
• Basil, a bunch, coarsely chopped
• 1/8 c grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/8 c olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tps salt

Mix the first five ingredients in a large bow. Make the dressing by mixing the oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and salt. Store in a jar in the refrigerator until ready to use. When ready to serve, add the basil leaves and Parmesan cheese, drizzle the dressing, and toss.

Simple, easy, colorful, delish!

Question for you foodies: a friend told me that whole wheat pasta doesn’t taste good cold in salads. Do you taste the difference between regular and whole wheat pasta? Do you think whole wheat is ok for hot pasta dishes but not cold salads? I got used to the whole wheat taste and texture and t doesn’t bother me. Curious to know what your preferences are.