Penne Nicoise

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Posted for zaar world tour 2005. a vegetarian salade nicoise with pasta. in france, this salad is only served in spring and summer, so use the freshest vegetables you can find. pasta cooks with potatoes and beans, which makes it easy and fast. from vegetarian times cooks mediterranean. have not made this yet.

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Steps

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Bring large pot of salted water to boil and add green beans and potatoes.

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Return to boil and add pasta.

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Cook , stirring occasionally , until the pasta is al dente , about 11 minutes or according to package directions.

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Meanwhile , in small skillet heat the olive oil over medium heat.

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Add onion and garlic and cook , stirring often , until onion is soft , about 5 minutes.

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Remove from heat and stir in tomatoes and olives and set aside.

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Drain the pasta , beans and potatoes , reserving 1 / 2 cup of pasta water.

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Transfer to serving bowl.

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Add the tomato mixture , vinegar , pepper and salt and toss to mix.

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If pasta seems too dry add reserved pasta water as needed , a little at a time.

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Ingredients

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green beans, red potatoes, penne pasta, olive oil, yellow onion, garlic cloves, plum tomato, kalamata olive, balsamic vinegar, fresh ground black pepper, salt