Penne, Tomato, and Mozzarella Salad

 

"Garden fresh basil and summer sweet cherry tomatoes make this pasta salad a warm season favorite. Takes only a few minutes to put together, a quick summertime meal."

1 (12 ounce) package penne pasta

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• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup quartered cherry tomatoes

• salt and pepper to taste
• 5 ounces mozzarella cheese, diced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 ounces fresh basil
• 12 large black olives, halve
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• 1. Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water as directed on package, until just tender. Drain, and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a small saucepan. Add green onions and cook, stirring occasionally, 2 or 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, and cook for 2 minutes. Add pasta, tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat to warm through. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Coarsely tear basil leaves in halves or thirds; add to pasta with olives, and serve immediately.