Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad

Yield: Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

• 1  (6-ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts
• 1  (8-ounce) package rotini pasta, cooked
• 1  (7-ounce) jar roasted red bell peppers, drained and cut into strips
• 1/2  pound  smoked mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes*
• 1/2  (5-ounce) bag baby spinach leaves (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/2  (4.5-ounce) can chopped green chiles, drained
• 1/2  cup  mayonnaise
• 1/2  cup  grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4  cup  pine nuts, toasted
• 1  garlic clove, minced
• 1/2  teaspoon  pepper
• Garnishes: tomato wedges, baby spinach leaves

Preparation

Drain artichokes, reserving marinade. Cut artichokes into strips, and place in a large bowl. Add pasta and next 4 ingredients, and gently toss.

Stir together reserved artichoke marinade, mayonnaise, and next 4 ingredients until blended. Add to pasta mixture, stirring to combine. Cover and chill. Garnish, if desired.

*1/2 pound smoked Gouda or Cheddar cheese may be substituted for smoked mozzarella, if desired.