Linguine with Tomatoes & Brie

Sooooooo great in the summer when you have lots of good tomatoes and fresh basil growing in the garden! Very easy to serve for company because the prep work is done a few hours ahead of time...

4 large tomatoes, cut roughly in 1/2 inch cubes
1/2 pound Brie, rind removed, torn in pieces
1/2 cup fresh Basil, cut in strips
1-2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup Olive Oil
1/4 tsp. Salt
1/4 tsp fresh ground Pepper
3/4 - 1 pound linguine

At least 2 HOURS before serving, combine tomatoes, brie, basil, garlic, olive oil, salt & pepper in a large serving bowl. Set aside, covered, at room temperature.

When you are getting ready to serve, bring water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package directions.

Drain pasta and immediately toss with tomato mixture. Serve at once. Top with fresh ground pepper and parmesan cheese.

Serve with salad, some good bread and red wine.

** Options...
Add medium-sized, peeled & deveined shrimp to the boiling pasta water during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking.
Can easily be doubled for company.
Can be used as a side dish as well.
Flavored linguine noodles add a good punch to the dish.