Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Fresh Basil
- 1 pound penne or bowtie pasta, cooked al dente according to package directions
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
- 1 cup black olives, cut in half lengthwise
- 1/4 cup capers
- 1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup fresh Italian basil, julienne sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1 cup balsamic vinaigrette (see recipe below)
Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (1-2 lemons)
- 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
