Decadent pasta salad

Although I generally lead a rather simple and frugal lifestyle, every so often, I treat myself to something purely luxurious: a rich Belgian chocolate, a special Montrachet, a pricey tea blend, a facial... These little treats are all the more appreciated because I am not jaded to them as a part of my everyday life.

Don't get me wrong, my lifestyle is simple - not all grey and bland! but little country-mouse can enjoy the big city every once in awhile :)

This weekend, our special treat was a delicious (and easy!) pasta salad with crab. I wanted to use lobster, but the lobsters had been well picked-over after the onslaught of holiday shoppers! The recipe would work with any shellfish!

Seafood Pasta Salad
1box (1 lb) pasta - I use penne
3 -4 fresh tomatoes, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1 small-medium vidalia onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3-4 large fresh basil leaves, julienned
1/2 cup vinaigrette dressing
1/2 cup shredded (not grated) parmesan or romano cheese
1-2 cups crab or lobster meat, cooked

Prepare the pasta per box directions. Drain, and rinse well in cold water (the idea is to cool the pasta). Tip into a large bowl.

Add all other ingredients. Stir well, cover, refrigerate and let stand 1/2 hour for flavors to blend.

Place a heaping tablespoon or two of your shellfish on each serving. If you like, garnish with additional whole basil leave and other greens.