Go Back
bruschetta-pasta-salad_feature

Ultimate Bruschetta Pasta Salad Recipe

This bruschetta pasta salad combines fresh flavors of classic Italian bruschetta with satisfying pasta to create the perfect warm-weather side dish. It features juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic dressing, making it ideal for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, and easy weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 12 ounces short pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle work well)
  • 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine), halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, prepare your tomatoes by cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Finely dice the red onion and mince the garlic. Slice the fresh basil leaves.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Combine Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, garlic, and basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Rest and Serve: Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. For best results, refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.

Notes

This salad tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Prepare up to 24 hours in advance for best results. Use short, sturdy pastas like fusilli, penne, or farfalle for best texture. For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt. Can be transformed into a main dish by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans.