Italian Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• Salad:

• • 12 ounces whole wheat or regular penne pasta, cooked until al dente (see note)
  • 6-ounce can of large olives, drained and sliced in half
  • 1-2 cups chopped cucumber
  • 2 cups sliced or chopped cherry tomatoes
  • 4-6 ounces sliced or chopped salami or pepperoni, about 1 cup
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls, cut in half (see note for options)
  • 1/4 cup chopped red or green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil

• Dressing:

• • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine or white balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan or Parm-reggiano cheese
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse, kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes