Let’s create this vibrant Caprese Pasta Salad:

1. Cook and Cool the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil.
• Add the 8 ounces of cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions, aiming for slightly past al dente (tender with a good chew, but not mushy, as it will firm up slightly when cooled). This typically takes about 9-11 minutes.
• Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly in a colander.
• Immediately toss the hot drained pasta with a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil (about 1-2 teaspoons). This helps prevent the pasta from sticking together as it cools.
• Spread the oiled pasta in a single layer on a large plate or baking sheet to cool down quickly to room temperature.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

• While the pasta cools, make the dressing. In a large salad bowl (the one you’ll use for the final salad), whisk together the ⅓ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, ¼ cup grated Pecorino cheese, 2 grated garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and several grinds of freshly ground black pepper.
• Whisk until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified.

3. Combine Pasta and Dressing:

• Add the cooled cooked pasta to the large bowl with the prepared dressing.
• Toss gently but thoroughly until all the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing.

4. Add Remaining Salad Ingredients:

• To the dressed pasta, add the 3 cups of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup of halved mini mozzarella balls, ½ cup of thinly sliced red onion, and the heaping 1 cup of torn fresh basil leaves.
• Toss everything together again, gently, until all the ingredients are well distributed.

5. Finish with Shaved Pecorino:

• Add the ¼ cup of shaved Pecorino cheese to the salad.
• Toss very gently one last time, just to incorporate the shaved cheese.

6. Season, Garnish, and Serve:

• Taste the Caprese Pasta Salad and season with additional sea salt or freshly ground black pepper if needed, according to your preference.
• Garnish with more fresh torn basil leaves.
• Serve immediately at room temperature, or chill for about 30 minutes if you prefer a colder pasta salad (though flavors are often best at cool room temp).

A beautiful, flavorful, and satisfying pasta salad ready in simple steps!