Sweet and Sour Pasta Salad

1 package (16 ounces) tricolor spiral pasta

1 medium red onion, chopped

1 medium tomato, chopped

1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and chopped

1 medium green pepper, chopped

2 Tablespoons minced fresh parsley

Dressing:

1-1/2 cups sugar

1/2 cup white vinegar

1 Tablespoon ground mustard

1 teaspoon salt, optional

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water. Place in a large serving bowl. Stir in the onion, tomato, cucumber, green pepper and parsley; set aside. In a small saucepan, combine the dressing ingredients. Cook over medium-low heat for 10 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Pour over salad and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours. Serve with a slotted spoon.