Penne Pasta Salad with Grape Tomatoes and Grainy Mustard Vinaigrette

Summer and pasta salad seem to go hand-in-hand, don't you think? I love zesty mustard vinaigrettes with my pasta, especially those with country-style mustard because the little seeds pop in your mouth! Whip this dish up in a snap and serve it by itself, or alongside grilled meat, poultry and seafood.

Penne Pasta Salad with Grape Tomatoes and Grainy Mustard Vinaigrette

12 ounces penne pasta
3 tablespoons country-style mustard (mustard with whole seeds, sometimes called "old style" or "whole grain")
3 tablespoons champagne vinegar or rice wine vinegar (I chose these because they're milder)
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 cup olive oil (preferably good quality)
8-10 ounces grape tomatoes, halved
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Spring mix greens

Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the mustard, vinegar and honey. Gradually whisk in the oil until blended. Add the warm pasta and toss to combine. Fold in the grape tomatoes.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve the pasta salad over spring mix greens (the warm pasta wilts the greens!).

Serves 4