Instructions: Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon oil mixed with garlic.

In bowl, combine carrot, corn, pepper, onion, tomato, chickpeas and chives. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss well. Add pasta and toss to combine.

To make vinaigrette, mix remaining oil, vinegar, water, garlic and basil in bowl. Season with salt and pepper, and blend well. Drizzle vinaigrette over salad and toss well. Let stand for 30 minutes before serving.

This recipe yields 8 to 12 servings.

Comments: Pasta salad is always better when made ahead. The idea for tossing the just-cooked pasta with olive oil and garlic came from one of Julia Childs cookbooks some time ago. If you do this when the pasta is hot, it absorbs the garlic flavor - and makes for a better-tasting pasta salad. Vary the vegetables, using peas, green beans or red or pink kidney beans in place of chickpeas.

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