Sicilian Pasta Pesto Salad

Ingredients:

2 lbs. ziti, penne, or other pasta, cooked

Pesto Sauce:

2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/2 cup walnut or pine nuts (optional) 4-6 large cloves garlic, minced or pressed 1 cup olive oil 1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes dash of black pepper salt to taste

Directions:

Place the olive oil into a small saucepan add the garlic, red pepper, grated imported Parmesan cheese and herbs and spices. Crush the anchovies into the oil until blended. Bring to a simmer for 1 minute and immediately remove from heat.

Pour this mixture over cooked hot pasta, stir well, and serve with bruschetta.