📖 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps to remove excess starch, preventing the pasta from sticking together. Set aside to drain completely.
2. Prepare the Watermelon and Cucumber: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the watermelon and cucumber. Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch in size. Remove any seeds as you go. Peel the cucumber and slice it thinly. If the cucumber has large seeds, you might want to remove them to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. Place the watermelon and cucumber in separate bowls.
3. Slice the Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion. If you find the taste of raw red onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes. This will mellow out the flavor and make it less pungent. Drain the red onion and set aside.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked pasta, cubed watermelon, sliced cucumber, and sliced red onion. Be gentle to avoid crushing the watermelon.
5. Add Blackberries and Mozzarella: Add the fresh blackberries and mozzarella balls to the bowl. If using larger mozzarella balls, cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. The blackberries and mozzarella add a burst of sweetness and creaminess to the salad.
6. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, fresh mint (chopped), salt, and black pepper. Make sure the honey is fully dissolved into the lime juice and olive oil. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Some people might prefer a little extra lime juice for tanginess, while others may want a touch more honey for sweetness.
7. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to overdress the salad, as this can make it soggy. Start with about two-thirds of the dressing and add more if needed.
8. Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill properly. If you're in a hurry, you can skip this step, but chilling really enhances the overall taste.
9. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss. Garnish with a few extra fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve cold and enjoy!