Tuscan Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 1 lb. dry penne pasta
• 1 cup pitted and diced Kalamata olives
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
2. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse with cool water. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, olives, tomatoes, and basil.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta and mix until combined.
6. Serve the pasta salad at room temperature or chilled.

Interesting Facts

• Tuscan cuisine is known for its simplicity and focus on fresh ingredients.
• Kalamata olives are named after the port city of Kalamata in Greece.
• Basil is a member of the mint family and has been used for centuries for its culinary and medicinal properties.