Family Reunion Pasta Salad

This past weekend we went to a family reunion.  We were instructed to bring a dish to pass on the invitation.  I thought of several things we could bring, but then I remembered one of my favorite dishes.  It is called Pizza Pasta Salad. I have shared this recipe in the past, but it has been a few years since I have done so.  It is very easy to make, and it always disappears fast when I serve it. 

You will need a box of your favorite pasta for this pasta salad.  I usually use rotini, but I sometimes use bowtie pasta. Both types work well.  Boil the pasta in a large pot, and then drain the water. 

I realized I forgot to take a picture of the plain cooked pasta after I had already added the tomatoes.  I used cherry tomatoes this time, but you can use regular tomatoes if you have them on hand.  I used equivalent to two or three medium tomatoes.  

 

The other ingredients to add in is a block of cubed cheddar cheese, and 3 ozs of sliced pepperoni.  I  occasionally also add in some Velvetta cheese cubes because of it's softer texture.  This time I only used the cheddar cheese.  If desired you can also add in some sliced green onion. I usually don't add it into mine.

Once you have ingredients in the pasta salad cut and in the bowl, it is time to make the dressing.  

You will need 3/4 c vegetable oil, 1/2 c red wine vinegar, 2/3 c grated parmesan cheese, 2 tsp dried oregano, 1tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp salt.  Add all of the ingredients in a bowl, and then mix well. 

Once it is mixed well, you are going to pour it on the pasta.

 Mix the dressing throughout the pasta salad. Cover the bowl, and chill in the fridge for a few hours.  

Since we were going to a reunion 40 minutes away, and didn't want to mess with bringing dirty dishes home, I brought the pasta salad in a disposable pan from the Dollar Tree.  They came in a 2 pk, so I used both to make the pan a little more sturdy. 

On the way to the reunion, we had a lot of rain.  We were concerned as we were driving that the reunion might be canceled since we were in a shelter house.  As we got closer though, the weather got better, and the sun came out.  Yea!  While we did not have as many people at the reunion as last year (probably due to the rain) the pasta salad was a hit with those who were there.  I guess I will have to bring it again next year.  :)