Description
This Bruschetta Pasta Salad blends tender pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, mini mozzarella, and crispy homemade breadcrumbs for a fresh, flavorful dish perfect for warm days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups small pasta, dry
- 24 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 small shallot, finely chopped
- 6 ounces mini bocconcini mozzarella, halved
- 1 ounce fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional breadcrumbs:
- 2 large slices sourdough bread
- 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, shallot, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss gently and let sit to blend flavors.
- To make breadcrumbs, toast sourdough slices until golden. Tear or chop into small pieces and pulse into crumbs or finely chop.
- Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and garlic powder; cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until golden and crisp.
- Add the cooked pasta to the tomato mixture and toss gently. Just before serving, add the breadcrumbs and mix again.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use bowties, penne, or rigatoni for different textures.
- Substitute mozzarella with grated parmesan or leave out for a dairy-free version.
- Add extras like olives, roasted veggies, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Store breadcrumbs separately to keep them crispy until serving.
- Serve at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
