Salami Pasta Salad, perfect for a hot night

You know when you see a recipe and you just know it's something you need to make? This is one of those recipes. It was in the July/August 2008 Simple and Delicious magazine. I first saw it on one of our 100+ degree days. I knew it would be a great summer time dinner. It's something you can make without even turning on your stove or grill.

This is also a recipe that can be easily adapted. Just think of what you love on your favorite sub sandwich and toss it in there. You could change out the meats for a different taste. I think next time we'll do it as a club with turkey, ham, and bacon to replace the salami and pepperoni. Maybe even add in some avocado.

I picked up my salami, pepperoni and provolone at the deli counter. Get them to slice it thick (I asked for number 8 on the meat and 5 on the cheese) This gets the meat and cheese thick enough so you can cube it.

Ingredients:

* 2 cups uncooked small pasta shells
* 3/4 cup chopped green pepper
* 3/4 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
* 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni
* 1/2 cup cubed hard salami
* 1/2 cup whole ripe olives, quartered
* 2 ounces provolone cheese, cubed
* 1/3 cup chopped onion
* DRESSING:
* 1/3 cup vegetable oil
* 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
* 1-1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Directions:
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. Place in a large bowl; add the green pepper, tomatoes, pepperoni, salami, olives, cheese and onion.
In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the dressing ingredients; shake well. Pour over pasta mixture; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Yield: 9 servings.

I used a pound of pasta, a half pound each of salami and pepperoni. I doubled the dressing also. I left out the peppers because I didn't have any on hand but added diced cucumber (I love cucumbers on my sandwiches from Subway) Next time I think I'm going to add some banana peppers because it's just like a sub sandwich changing the bread for pasta.

If you need a quick cool dinner for a hot and humid night, this is perfect. Add some rolls and fruit and you have a perfect summer meal.