Bruschetta Pasta Salad Recipe
This Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a light and flavorful twist on the classic Italian appetizer. It’s packed with juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, creamy mozzarella balls, and tossed in a simple homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, or an easy weeknight meal!
Ingredients:
8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best for pasta salad)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
½ cup red onion, finely diced
½ cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, diced red onion, and mozzarella balls.
3. Prepare the Bruschetta Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss and Coat:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.
5. Chill and Serve:
Let the salad sit for 15–30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Nutritional Info:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
Perfect for:
Summer pasta salad recipes
Italian-style side dishes
Quick and healthy vegetarian meals
Easy potluck or picnic salads
Bruschetta Pasta Salad, Italian Pasta Salad, Tomato Basil Mozzarella, Cold Pasta Salad