This Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of pasta, fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. It’s like a party in a bowl, full of flavors that will make you smile!
Perfect for picnics or a quick lunch at home. I love adding a drizzle of olive oil, it makes everything zing! Plus, it’s so simple to whip up—just boil pasta, chop, and mix!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is fun for this salad, but any short pasta like penne or rotini can work too. If gluten-free, look for a gluten-free pasta option that suits your taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: I like using a mix of red and yellow tomatoes for a burst of color. If they’re out of season, using canned diced tomatoes can work, just drain them well!
Mini Mozzarella Balls: These are perfect for bite-size goodness. If you can’t find them, you can cut regular mozzarella into cubes, or even use feta cheese for a tangy twist.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely flavor. If you don’t have it, use dried basil, but cut the amount in half. Alternatively, parsley can be a nice substitute.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a touch of sweetness. If you want something different, red wine vinegar or lemon juice can liven it up nicely.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad is Flavorful?
The secret to a tasty pasta salad lies in making sure all ingredients mix well. Start by cooking the pasta perfectly—al dente helps it hold up to the dressing and won’t go mushy.
- Cook the pasta in salted water; this helps season it while cooking.
- Rinse with cold water after draining; this stops the cooking and helps the pasta mix well with other ingredients.
Don’t rush the dressing! Whisking the oil, vinegar, and spices well makes a difference. Coat the pasta mixture fully. Allowing the salad to sit for about 30 minutes before serving lets the flavors blend beautifully. Enjoy your creation!
Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red and yellow if possible)
- 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Crunch:
- 1/2 cup toasted bread crumbs or croutons for crunch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bruschetta Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be ready to serve right away or chilled for 30 minutes to let those flavors mingle. Total time: approximately 45 minutes if you want to chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the farfalle pasta following the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be firm when bitten. Once done, drain the pasta and give it a rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool down.
2. Mix the Fresh Ingredients:
While the pasta cools, grab a large mixing bowl. Add in the halved cherry tomatoes, drained mini mozzarella balls, thinly sliced basil, minced garlic, and finely chopped red onion. Give everything a gentle stir to mix.
3. Combine the Pasta:
Once the pasta is cool, toss it into the mixing bowl with the tomato and mozzarella mixture. It’s great to watch the colors come together!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This dressing is what will bring all the flavors together.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over your pasta mixture and gently toss everything together. Make sure every bit is coated nicely in that tasty dressing!
6. Add a Crunch (Optional):
If you’d like a bit of crunch, mix in the toasted bread crumbs or croutons. This adds a delightful texture to your salad.
7. Garnish and Serve:
For a lovely finish, garnish the salad with a few fresh basil leaves right on top. You can serve it immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance those wonderful flavors even more.
Enjoy your colorful, flavorful Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad! It’s perfect for a warm day or as a fun side dish for any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle adds a nice touch, you can substitute it with any short pasta like penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check the package instructions!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day! Just give it a gentle toss before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just skip adding the croutons or bread crumbs until ready to serve, so they stay crispy!
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can omit the mozzarella or replace it with avocado cubes for creaminess or use diced tofu for a protein boost. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor if you’re vegan!