{ Garden Party Salad Recipes }

I've got two yummy salad recipes for you today. We served both of these at our Garden Party the other day. Yum!

BASIL & TOMATO PASTA SALAD

created by Martha Stewart

2 large ripe tomatoes, seeded & coarsely chopped

4 oven-dried tomatoes, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 clove garlic, chopped

coarse salt & freshly ground pepper

1 lb. garganelle or penne rigate

1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed

also:

12 plum tomatoes, halved lengthwise

1/4 cup olive oil

coarse salt & freshly ground pepper

coarsely chopped fresh herbs such as oregano, marjoram, flat-leaf parsley (optional)

Combine fresh & oven-dried tomatoes, oil, garlic, salt, & pepper in a large bowl. Marinate at room temperature for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, 7-10 minutes. Drain well, and while still hot, toss with tomato mixture.

Coarsely chop basil & combine with pasta. Serve immediately, or at room temperature.

Preheat oven to 275 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place tomatoes cut side up o baking sheet. Drizzle with oil & season with salt, pepper, & herbs. Bake until shriveled but still moist, 1 1/2 - 2 1/2 hours. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

PEAR & CUCUMBER SALAD

created by ??? {my SIL gave it to me}

1 half lb. bag of Spring Mix lettuce

2 pears, diced

2 cucumbers, diced

Craisins, as much as you like

candied pecans, as much as you like

BRIANNAS Poppy Seed Dressing {my fave!}

{Here's a picture of the dressing. I get it at Target because it's cheaper.}

Toss all ingredients together & serve right away

ENJOY!