Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad - cooking recipe

Ingredients

8 ounces dried rigatoni pasta or 8 ounces other medium-size pasta
1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese (1/2-inch cubes)
1/3 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
salt and pepper
cooking time represents the cooking of the pasta

Preparation

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until just tender. Drain and rinse with cold water. Pat dry with paper towels and transfer to a large bowl.
Add the tomatoes, mozzarella, pesto and Parmesan cheese to the pasta. Toss gently. Taste for seasoning, adding salt and pepper if necessary.
If making ahead and storing in the refrigerator, remove the salad from the fridge at least 30 minutes before serving, if possible.