Pretty Simple Pasta Salad

     There are just some things that you don't need a recipe to make, but I never used to realize that.  I always needed a recipe the first few times, no matter how simple the recipe.  So I remember diligently writing down the things that would go into pasta salad while my friend Ashley was making it for us one day.  Now I have made it enough that I don't need a recipe!  I add things or leave things out depending on what sounds good or what is in the fridge. Additional items that you may want to consider would be chucnks of salami or sugar snap peas.  But in case you are like me and need a recipe to get you started, here is a pretty simple pasta salad!  It is great for a light dinner, to pack in lunches, or as a side dish to a summer barbecue.  

1 box bow tie pasta

1 bottle Ken's Lite Northern Italian dressing (you can use another kind, but I think this is the best)

½-1 bag of Kraft Crumbles Cheese (again, shredded cheese works but the crumbles are more noticeable)

¾ cup of carrots, shredded or diced

1 cucumber, sliced and quartered (sometimes I cut off the skin, but sometimes I leave it on)

1 small broccoli head, cut into small florets

     Boil water in a big pot and cook pasta according to the directions on the box.  When the pasta is done cooking, strain from the hot water and immediately rinse with cold water.  Continue rinsing with cold water until all pasta is cool.  Add in all vegetables and cheese.  Pour the dressing over top, a small amount at a time.  Stir until well coated.  I usually only put about ½ the bottle in at first.  Refrigerate for several hours.  Before serving, add more dressing, to taste.  I usually only use about ¾ of the bottle total, but feel free to add more or less to your liking.