Bruschetta Pasta Salad
A fresh and flavorful pasta salad featuring ripe tomatoes, basil, garlic, and mozzarella, tossed with al dente pasta and a light balsamic vinaigrette. Inspired by classic bruschetta, this dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light summer meal.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz fusilli or penne pasta
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 0.5 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, mozzarella, and minced garlic.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Add the cooled pasta to the tomato mixture and toss everything together until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For best flavor, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld and the pasta to absorb the dressing.