Sweet -Sour Pasta Salad

1 package (16 oz) tricolor spiral pasta
1 medium red onion, chopped
1 medium tomato, chopped
1 medium cucumber. peeled 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 until cooled.