Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the sun streaming through the window, I couldn’t help but think how perfect a cold bruschetta pasta salad would be for our upcoming picnic. With its zesty combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil, this dish not only embraces the essence of summer but also doubles as a quick and easy vegetarian delight. In just over 30 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant salad that transforms humble pasta into a delightful experience, ideal for gatherings or a refreshing solo lunch. The best part? It’s customizable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets, making it a flexible choice for everyone. Are you ready to dive into this colorful, flavor-packed dish that’s sure to impress? Why is Bruschetta Pasta Salad a Must-Try? Vibrant Flavors: This salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients, with juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil making each bite a burst of summer. Quick and Easy: With just over 30 minutes to prepare, it’s the perfect solution for busy weekdays or spontaneous get-togethers. Customizable Options: Whether you prefer it gluten-free or dairy-free, this salad is flexible enough to cater to any dietary needs. Try swapping the bocconcini with crumbled feta for a tangy twist or even add grilled chicken for extra protein! Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Serve this salad at barbecues or picnics, and watch it disappear—it’s beloved by both kids and adults! For a refreshing side, pair it with Watermelon Cucumber Salad. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepping it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal option for meal prepping or entertaining. Bruschetta Pasta Salad Ingredients For the Salad • Small Pasta Shape – 2 cups dry; choose small pasta like bowties or penne for a delightful texture. • Cherry Tomatoes – 24 ounces, halved; these add juicy sweetness and vibrant color to your bruschetta pasta salad. • Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; enhances flavor with aromatic depth; feel free to adjust based on your garlic preference. • Shallot – 1/2 small, chopped; offers a mild onion flavor; you can swap it with red onion for a more robust taste. • Mini Bocconcini – 6 ounces, halved; provides creaminess; substitute with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or skip for a dairy-free option. • Fresh Basil – 1 ounce, chopped; introduces fresh herbal notes; parsley can work as a substitute or you can omit it if needed. • Olive Oil – 2 Tbsp; adds richness and helps to marry the flavors; opt for extra virgin for the best quality. • Red Wine Vinegar – 2 Tbsp; brings acidity and brightness to balance the salad’s flavors; balsamic vinegar can serve as a tasty alternative. • Salt + Pepper – to taste; essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors; adjust according to your palate. • Sourdough Bread – 2 slices, optional for breadcrumbs; adds crunch and texture; any bread is fine, with gluten-free options available. For the Optional Breadcrumbs • Sourdough Bread – 2 slices, toasted; turn into crunchy breadcrumbs by pulsing in a food processor, then sauté with olive oil and garlic powder. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bruschetta Pasta Salad Step 1: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Add 2 cups of your chosen small pasta and cook according to the package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad. Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine 24 ounces of halved cherry tomatoes, 4 minced garlic cloves, and ½ small chopped shallot. Gently mix in 6 ounces of halved mini bocconcini, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar. Toss in 1 ounce of chopped fresh basil, salt, and pepper to taste, allowing the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Step 3: Optional Breadcrumbs If you wish to enhance the texture of your Bruschetta Pasta Salad, prepare the optional crunchy breadcrumbs. Toast 2 slices of sourdough bread until golden brown, then pulse in a food processor until you have fine crumbs. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil, add the breadcrumbs with a sprinkle of garlic powder, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes or until they are crispy and golden. Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Salad After the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the salad mixture, gently folding everything together to combine the ingredients. Ensure the pasta is well-coated with the olive oil and vinegar dressing. If you prepared the breadcrumbs, fold them in now, or keep them separate for added crunch at serving time. Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve Taste your Bruschetta Pasta Salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to develop further. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, making it a delightful and refreshing dish that everyone will love. Bruschetta Pasta Salad Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this salad to your taste buds, bringing extra joy to each bite! Feta Cheese: Swap bocconcini for crumbled feta to introduce a tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes. The salty, briny flavor enhances the overall salad profile. Quinoa Substitute: Make it gluten-free by using quinoa or another grain instead of pasta. This adds a nutty flavor and a protein boost to your meal. Chickpea Addition: For a heartier option, mix in chickpeas or grilled chicken. This protein will turn your salad into a satisfying main course for lunch or dinner. Zesty Veggies: Add crunchy bell peppers, cucumbers, or even radishes for extra texture and flavor diversity. They not only look great but also turn up the freshness dial! Avocado Creaminess: Toss in diced avocado for a creamy element that complements the other ingredients beautifully. The richness brings a delightful mouthfeel to each forkful. Herb Variations: Transform the taste by exchanging fresh basil for parsley or mint. Each herb brings its unique essence, allowing for seasonal adaptations. Spicy Kick: For those who crave a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This addition will make your salad sing with an exciting zing. Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving for a touch of sweetness and depth. A flavor-packed finish that enhances every bite! However you choose to customize, enjoy the delicious process of making this bruschetta pasta salad uniquely yours—your family will thank you! For more delightful summer sides, consider a refreshing Tomato Salad Refreshing to accompany your meal. How to Store and Freeze Bruschetta Pasta Salad Fridge: Store the bruschetta pasta salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the salad, as the texture of the fresh ingredients may change upon thawing. Reheating: If serving leftovers, enjoy chilled or allow it to come to room temperature. Avoid reheating, as this dish is meant to be enjoyed cold. Crunchy Additions: If using optional breadcrumbs, store them separately and add just before serving to keep them crispy. Expert Tips for Bruschetta Pasta Salad Flavor Boost: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients truly make this bruschetta pasta salad shine. Pasta Perfection: Avoid overcooking your pasta; aim for al dente to maintain texture and prevent mushiness in your salad. Chill Time: Allow the salad to rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors marry beautifully. Crunch Control: If using breadcrumbs, add them right before serving to keep them crunchy and prevent sogginess. Storage Savvy: This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Keep the breadcrumbs separate until ready to serve. What to Serve with Cold Bruschetta Pasta Salad Elevate your summer meal with delightful pairings that match the freshness and vibrancy of this delightful dish. Grilled Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh, grilled vegetables adds depth and smoky flavor, enhancing the salad’s brightness. Serve this beside bruschetta pasta salad for a nutritious, filling combo that feels gourmet. Caprese Skewers: Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil on skewers create a perfect match for your pasta salad. These bite-sized delights provide a harmonious blend of flavors, reinforcing the Italian spirit of the meal. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft within, garlic bread is a comforting pairing that perfectly complements the lightness of your dish, soaking up the dressing beautifully. Its warm, buttery goodness provides a satisfying contrast. Crisp Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch. The greens balance the richness of the pasta salad with their crispness and bright bite. Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is a delightful accompaniment. The crisp acidity cuts through the creaminess of the cheese, enhancing your overall flavor experience. Berry Sorbet: For dessert, a light, fruity berry sorbet serves as a refreshing end to your meal. Its vibrant flavors and cold, smooth texture mirror the salad’s zesty elements, leaving your palate refreshed. These pairings will not only complement your cold bruschetta pasta salad but also create a memorable dining experience that celebrates summer! Make Ahead Options Preparing Bruschetta Pasta Salad in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeks! You can pre-cook the pasta and chop the veggies, keeping them refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, store the salad components separately in airtight containers. Prepare the salad dressing and mix the cherry tomatoes, garlic, shallots, and basil ahead of time, allowing those vibrant flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything and adjust the seasoning, adding optional crunchy breadcrumbs just before enjoying. This make-ahead approach allows you to savor a delicious, flavorful dish with minimal effort at mealtime. Bruschetta Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs What kind of pasta should I use for bruschetta pasta salad? Absolutely! For this salad, small pasta shapes like bowties or penne work beautifully, offering the right texture to hold the other ingredients. Feel free to use any small pasta you have on hand—just ensure it’s cooked al dente! How should I store leftover bruschetta pasta salad? Store your bruschetta pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, consume it within 2 days. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent moisture loss and keep those vibrant flavors intact! Can I freeze bruschetta pasta salad? It’s not recommended to freeze bruschetta pasta salad due to the fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil, which can lose their texture and flavor when thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated for the best taste experience! How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Very! To make the bruschetta pasta salad gluten-free, simply swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta option. You can also use quinoa or another grain as a base, providing a delightful twist while keeping this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities. What should I do if my tomatoes are not ripe enough? If your tomatoes aren’t perfectly ripe, try letting them sit at room temperature for a couple of days to enhance their natural sweetness. Alternatively, roasting them lightly can also intensify their flavor, making them a great addition to your bruschetta pasta salad! Can I add protein to this salad? Certainly! For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even beans. Just mix in your chosen protein after combining the pasta and salad ingredients, and adjust the seasoning accordingly to accommodate the new flavors. Bruschetta Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Summer Delight Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a quick and easy vegetarian dish, perfect for summer picnics filled with juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChill Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salad2 cups dry small pasta like bowties or penne24 ounces cherry tomatoes halved4 cloves garlic minced1/2 small shallot chopped6 ounces mini bocconcini halved1 ounce fresh basil chopped2 Tbsp olive oil preferably extra virgin2 Tbsp red wine vinegarsalt + pepper to taste2 slices sourdough bread optional for breadcrumbsFor the Optional Breadcrumbs2 slices sourdough bread toasted Equipment large potColanderMixing bowlfood processorskillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Bruschetta Pasta SaladBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 2 cups of small pasta and cook according to package directions, 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.In a large mixing bowl, combine 24 ounces of halved cherry tomatoes, 4 minced garlic cloves, and ½ small chopped shallot. Mix in 6 ounces of bocconcini, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar. Toss in 1 ounce of chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.For optional breadcrumbs: Toast 2 slices of sourdough bread, pulse in a food processor for crumbs. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet, add breadcrumbs with garlic powder, sauté for 3-5 minutes until crispy.After cooling, add pasta to the salad mixture, folding gently to combine. If using breadcrumbs, fold them in or keep separate for serving.Taste the salad, adjusting salt and pepper. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesAllowing the salad to rest enhances flavors. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days, keeping breadcrumbs separate until serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
