Caprese Pasta Salad

Serves 4

3 large tomatoes, finely chopped
1/8 tsp salt
6 oz uncooked pasta, orecchiette or other small pasta (I used Ditalinni)
1/4 cup basil, fresh, cut into thin strips
1 garlic clove, minced
1 Tbsp olive oil
1/8 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
3/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheeses

1. Place the tomatoes in a colander and sprinkle with the salt. Place in the sink; let drain about 20 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, prepare the pasta according to the package directions, omitting the salt if desired. Drain; keep warm.

3. Combine the tomatoes, basil, garlic, oil, and pepper in a serving bowl; let stand about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Add the pasta and mozzarella; toss until the cheese softens. Yields about 1 cup per serving.

Results: Anything "caprese" has got to be good. This was a quick, easy and delicious pasta dish.