Pasta with Basil, Tomatoes, and Feta

Ingredients

• 12 ounces dried penne pasta
• 1 1/2 pounds ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup chopped or slivered fresh basil leaves
• 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (4 oz.)
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Preparation

1. 1. In a 4- to 5-quart pan over high heat, bring 2 quarts water to a boil. Add pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender to bite, about 10 minutes. Drain.
2. 2. Meanwhile, rinse, core, seed, and chop tomatoes. In a large bowl, mix tomatoes, basil, 1/2 cup feta, garlic, and olive oil. Add hot cooked pasta and mix well. Add salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup feta.