Blue Cheese and Bacon Pasta Salad Prep Time: 25 minutes Cook Time: 0 minutes Servings: 4 Ingredients - 4 ounces bacon, preferably thick sliced - 8 ounces dried pasta, any short kind - 1/4 cup olive or canola oil - 2 tablespoons vinegar - 1 clove garlic, pressed or minced - 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of fresh pepper - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, oregano, or as preferred) - 1 cup celery, sliced thinly - 2 ounces blue cheese, crumbled - lettuce leaves for serving (optional)    These delicious assertive flavors pair well with grilled meat.	1

	Directions In a heavy skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Drain and break into pieces of varying sizes. Whisk together oil, vinegar, garlic, herbs, and salt and pepper. Set aside. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and mix with dressing. Mix in celery. Scatter bacon and cheese over, mixing lightly to distribute. Arrange leaves, if using, on platter or individual serving plates and top with pasta. Good chilled or at room temperature.	2