Refreshingly Simple Caprese Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups dry pasta (I used "cavatappi" as the shape, but you can use others like fusilli, penne, etc.)
• 1 large English cucumber
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (vine-ripened, if possible)
• 1.5 cups bocconcini balls
• 1 cup fresh basil
• Salt + pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt + pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   Boil a pot of water and cook pasta according to package instructions.

2. 2

   While pasta cooks, chop cucumber into 1-inch pieces. Halve tomatoes and bocconcini balls. Chop basil. Set aside.

3. 3

   Add all vinaigrette ingredients to a small jar and shake vigorously to combine. OR, make homemade pesto if desired.

4. 4

   Once pasta is done, drain and add to large bowl.

5. 5

   Add chopped tomatoes, cucumber, bocconcini, and basil to the pasta. Toss in balsamic vinaigrette OR pesto until well combined, adjusting salt + pepper to taste.

6. 6

   Cover bowl and place in the fridge to cool for at least 1 hour. Best served chilled!