Smoked Gouda and Penne Pasta Salad

Talk to the folks at your local cheese counter about finding good smoked Gouda. There are some processed cheeses that look the part but lack the intense flavor. Prep: 20 minutes; Cook: 10 minutes; Chill: 1 hour.

Yield: Makes 6 to 8 servings

Ingredients

• 1  pound  penne pasta
• 1  garlic clove, halved
• 1/3  cup  mayonnaise
• 1/2  pound  smoked Gouda, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 1  (7-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes preserved in olive oil, drained and thinly sliced
• 2  cups  arugula

Preparation

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.

2. Rub a medium nonreactive bowl with garlic halves, and add next 4 ingredients and cooked pasta. Mix well, and chill 1 hour before serving.