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+ servings
tomato basil garlic pasta

Bruschetta Pasta Salad

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 Small bowl
  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 measuring cup
  • 4 Measuring spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounce pasta penne, fusilli, or farfalle; short shape
  • 4 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely diced
  • 2 clove garlic finely minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese finely grated
  • 1/2 cup crusty bread torn into small pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for toasting bread
  • 1 pinch kosher salt for bread

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
  • Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, then drain in a colander and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking.
  • Spread the pasta in the colander or a tray to cool completely while you prepare the other ingredients.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until emulsified.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, red onion, minced garlic, and sliced basil.
  • Add the cooled pasta to the large bowl with the tomato mixture and toss gently to combine.
  • Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  • Cover the bowl and let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • While the salad chills, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the torn crusty bread pieces to the skillet, season with a pinch of kosher salt, and toast, stirring often, until golden and crisp, then let cool.
  • Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted bread pieces and grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss lightly.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, use very ripe, sweet tomatoes and high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar, as they drive most of the taste in this salad. Cook the pasta just to al dente so it holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy once dressed. Allowing the salad to rest is important; the tomatoes release juices and the dressing soaks into the pasta, deepening the bruschetta flavor. Add the toasted bread and extra basil right before serving so they stay crisp and fresh, and if making ahead, keep a bit of extra dressing on hand to refresh the salad in case the pasta absorbs too much and seems dry.
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