Homemade Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad

Step 1

Combine the Parmesan cheese, parsley, mayonnaise, vinegar, garlic, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper with a hand mixer or in the bowl of food processor or in a blender until the dressing is smooth.

Step 2

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta until it is al dente. Drain the pasta into a colander, run cold water over it or submerge it in ice water until chilled through, and drain well. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, spinach, roasted red peppers, and smoked mozzarella.

Step 3

Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. For best results, make this ahead of time and let chill for 2-4 hours before serving. Serve cold.