Summer Pasta Salad

This recipe is based on a simple summer dinner my mom would often make, it was always so perfect on a hot day and I requested it frequently. She would also add in a can of tuna, but Greg hates tuna so I've adapted it a bit. I have also added more summer veggies to take advantage of all the lovely fresh produce coming into season right now.

This pasta salad makes a wonderful side dish to a grilled summer meal. It is also excellent served as a main course (I'll sometimes toss in some grilled chicken for protein and to make it more substantial as a meal, but it works just as well vegetarian). An extra delicious side for this meal is my favorite cheesy garlic bread.

Summer Pasta Salad
2 cups medium shells
1 cucumber, diced
1 tomato, diced
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
2 ears of corn, kernels removed
1 scallion, finely sliced
2 1/4 teaspoons dried oregano
2 1/4 teaspoons dried basil
1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
ground pepper to taste
optional: cubed grilled chicken or a can of flaked tuna

Cook shells in boiling water and drain.

While the pasta is cooking, whisk together oregano, basil, pepper, oil, and vinegar is a large bowl. Stir in cucumber, onion, tomato, scallion, and corn (and the chicken or tuna if you're adding those).  Add pasta to bowl and toss until well combined

this recipe is also shared at some of my favorite food blog hops

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