Please Pass the Pasta Salad

My husband and I earned our master’s degrees at the same time.  I recall the last day of our last course (one we happened to be taking together, since we were both studying for master’s degrees in teaching). A mentally exhausted group of grad students stared at each other, glassy-eyed.  “Let’s have a party to celebrate our graduation,” someone suggested.  We agreed that a party would be a great idea, and set about planning a potluck (the easiest party imaginable for a bunch of tired teachers).

I don’t remember what my hubby and I brought to the party, but I do recall the delicious pasta salad one of our male classmates contributed. I begged him for the recipe, which he willingly shared. Since then, our “Master’s Degree Pasta Salad” has been the hit of every potluck, family gathering, and party we’ve attended. My hubby and I claim that this salad recipe is the most important thing we learned during grad school!

Best of all, it makes a huge batch so you’ll have plenty to enjoy at home after the party’s over.

Master’s Degree Pasta Salad

¾-1 pound colorful spiral pasta noodles
3-4 smallish tomatoes, chopped
1 can sliced olives (we like to use a mixture of kalamata and black olives)
1 large can artichoke hearts, chopped
Chopped onion to taste
Chopped bell pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (optional)
1 small package feta cheese, crumbled (this is the key ingredient; don’t leave it out!)
1 medium-sized bottle Bernstein’s Cheesy Italian Dressing (or flavored Italian dressing of your choice)

Cook noodles. Drain. Throw all ingredients into a large bowl and mix gently. Refrigerate. Best when made a day ahead so ingredients have a chance to marinate in the dressing.

What’s your favorite potluck recipe, readers?