This Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a colorful dish filled with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. Tossed with pasta and a drizzle of olive oil, it’s bursting with flavor!
It’s perfect for a warm day, and it’s a big hit at potlucks. I love how quick it is to make; I can whip it up in no time and enjoy it all week! 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or linguine for this salad. However, any short pasta like penne or rotini can also work. These shapes hold onto the dressing and flavors beautifully.
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are essential for the best taste. If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, you can use canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them well to keep the salad from getting too watery.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice crunch and flavor. If they’re too sharp for you, try using green onions or even sweet onions as a milder alternative.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must! If you can’t find it, consider using fresh parsley or even dried herbs like Italian seasoning, though fresh is always best.
Cheese: I love adding fresh mozzarella balls for creaminess. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try using diced avocado or leave it out altogether.
What’s the Best Way to Make Sure the Pasta Stays Fresh?
Keeping your pasta salad fresh and tasty means cooking the pasta correctly and cooling it down quickly. Here’s how:
- Cook your pasta just until it’s al dente, which means it’ll still have a slight bite to it. Overcooking leads to mushy pasta!
- After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water. This halts the cooking process and helps it cool faster.
- Let the pasta sit out until it reaches room temperature before mixing in the other ingredients. This prevents wilting in the fresh veggies.
- Chill the final salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld beautifully!
With these tips, you’ll have a fresh and vibrant bruschetta pasta salad that’s perfect for sharing! Enjoy making it! 😊
Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. It’s a quick and simple dish that lets you enjoy fresh flavors with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Bruschetta Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, minced garlic, and sliced fresh basil. These fresh ingredients are what give the salad its delicious bruschetta flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
Add the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar to the bowl. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything well. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor!
4. Combine with Pasta:
Now, it’s time to add the cooled pasta to your bruschetta mixture. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is nicely coated with the tomato mixture.
5. Add the Cheese:
If you’re using mozzarella balls, fold them into the pasta salad now. The creamy cheese pairs perfectly with the fresh vegetables.
6. Garnish and Chill:
Garnish your salad with additional fresh basil leaves and, if you like a little heat, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes. Now, cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let all those flavors meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
After chilling, serve your Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad cold or at room temperature. It’s a delightful dish for a light lunch or as a side at your next gathering. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Look for varieties made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas for a delicious gluten-free option. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as gluten-free pasta can vary.
How Can I Customize This Salad?
This pasta salad is very versatile! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives for extra crunch and flavor. You can also swap basil for other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if you prefer a different taste.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You sure can! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Make it up to 2 days in advance, but add the mozzarella just before serving to keep it fresh. Letting it chill in the fridge allows all the flavors to blend beautifully!
