Tomato-Basil Pasta Salad

Description: I got the basis for this recipe from my cousin's wife, who absolutely adores the taste of fresh basil! This is a great, simple summer pasta salad, with a nice light blend of flavors. FRESH basil is a must on this one!! This salad is great alongside BBQ chicken. Easy, and yummy!! Prep. time includes marinating time.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb rotini pasta
• 2 lbs plum tomatoes or 2 lbs roma tomatoes, diced
• 3 -4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• fresh basil leaf, chopped,to taste (I use about 1/3 cup)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (fresh is best)

Steps:

1. Mix together the tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, olive oil, and basil.
2. Refrigerate 2 hours.
3. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions, and rinse under cold water; drain.
4. Mix pasta with tomato mixture until well-combined.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve with additional Parmesan, if desired.