Pasta Salad with Artichoke Hearts, Cheese and Peppers

A good pasta salad is hard to beat when you want a light, tasty and nutritious meal. Recipe serves 4.

Ingredients:

8 ounces (250 g) medium-sized pasta shells or elbow macaroni
1 jar (5 1/2 ounces/170 g) artichoke hearts in marinade
1/3 cup apple juice
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or cider vinegar
1 teaspoon dried marjoram, chopped
Tabasco or chili sauce, to taste
7 ounces (220 g) roasted red peppers (capsicum), sliced into thin strips
3 spring onions, including tops, sliced
8 ounces (250 g) mozzarella cheese cut into 3/4 inch (1.5 cm) cubes

Method:

1. Start cooking the pasta according to the packet directions. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of the artichoke marinade, the apple juice, vinegar, marjoram and Tabasco sauce until well blended.
2. Drain the artichoke hearts, discarding the marinade, and put them in a large bowl with the capsicum and spring onions.
3. When the pasta is cooked, drain and rinse it under cold running water, drain again and add it to the vegetable mixture. Pour half the dressing over the salad and refrigerate, covered, for up to 2 days. Just before serving, stir in the remaining dressing and the cheese. Serve chilled or at room temperature.