This colorful pasta salad is quick and easy to prepare. It's a perfect side dish for spring and summer meals.

• 2 cups bow-tie, spiral, or small shell pasta
• 1/2 lb. fresh asparagus, cut diagonally into 2" pieces
• 1/2 cup coarsely grated carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup coarsely chopped red or yellow bell peppers
• 1/2 cup grape tomatoes - halved
• 1 tsp. oregano
• 1-1/4 cups creamy Italian salad dressing

Preparation -
Cook the pasta as directed on the package for al dente. Drain, then rinse with cold water to cool the pasta. While that's cooking, cook the asparagus...... place the cut asparagus in a microwave safe container or bowl. Add about 1/4 cup to 1/3 cup water. Microwave on full power for 3 to 5 minutes or until the asparagus is tender crisp... do not overcook. Drain, then rinse with cold water to cool the asparagus. Place the cooled pasta and asparagus in a large mixing bowl. Add the grated carrots, chopped onion and peppers, grape tomato halves and oregano. Toss or stir gently to mix all the ingredients together. Stir in the creamy Italian dressing. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours before serving.

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Store and serve in these.......

Pyrex 3-pc. Round Glass Storage Bowl Set These glass bowls, in three sizes ( 2, 4 and 7-cup) nest for convenient storage. They can be used for baking, serving and refrigerating food. The blue plastic covers provide airtight seals. The set is microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe.

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