Whole Wheat Penne Pasta with Salami, Mozzarella, Capers, Red Peppers

"I'm not wearing this dress to look pretty. It's effing hot outside and I didn't want to wear any pants".  ~someecards.com

As the blanket of heat covers us this week I'm modifying the way I dress and eat.  I can't seem to manage to wear anything but dresses.  Dresses will always remind me of my own youth and observing my mom back in 80's.  She had the most amazing variety of rayon and polyester dresses and jumpsuits.  I didn't really understand why she looked "so pretty" every day.  I was happy to wear shorts, flip flops and a t-shirt in those days.  

Now I get it. It's a survival mechanism! A way to keep calm and cool. It's almost as if the dress is a metaphor for the proper behavior we should have in spite of the record breaking heat. Wearing a dress not only keeps me feeling cooler, it forces me to cross my legs while sitting down!

Another way I'm keepin' cool is to give up oven cooking. Lately, I've been blogging a lot about salads.  Today is no exception. This is a hearty, healthy and quick pasta salad that is great for a pot luck, lunch or dinner.

• 12 ounces Whole Wheat Penne Pasta
• 2 Red Peppers, cored and sliced
• 2 Tablespoons Capers
• 1 Red Pepper Flaked Mozzarella Salami Log, Sliced & Diced (Sold in a 3 variety pack at Costco)
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• Salt and Pepper to Taste

Cook pasta according to directions. Toss all ingredients well and add a bit more olive oil if desired. Serve chilled.