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Bruschetta Pasta Salad

Savory Bruschetta Pasta Salad for Quick Summer Meals

This Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a vibrant and customizable dish, perfect for quick summer meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups dry small pasta gluten-free pasta works as a suitable alternative
For the Salad
  • 24 ounces cherry tomatoes halved; choose vine-ripened for the sweetest flavor
  • 4 cloves garlic minced; opt for roasted garlic for a milder taste
  • 0.5 small shallot chopped; substitute with red onion if shallots aren’t on hand
  • 6 ounces mini bocconcini halved; creaminess can also be achieved with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or omitted for a dairy-free version
  • 1 ounce fresh basil leaves chopped; parsley can be a lovely substitute
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin enhances the flavor beautifully
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar swaps well with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter twist
  • Salt + Pepper essential for seasoning according to your taste preference
For the Optional Crunch
  • 2 large slices sourdough bread they mimic bruschetta; panko can substitute or omit if you prefer a softer salad

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • food processor
  • Skillet
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bruschetta Pasta Salad
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add dry small pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped shallot, and halved mini bocconcini. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then toss gently. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Toast sourdough bread until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Tear into smaller pieces and pulse in a food processor until fine crumbs.
  4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and sprinkle with garlic powder, stirring for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Set aside.
  5. Add the drained pasta and toasted breadcrumbs to the salad mixture. Toss gently to combine, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Serve the Bruschetta Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad can be made a day in advance; just add pasta and breadcrumbs before serving for optimal freshness.

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