Bruschetta Pasta Salad
Bruschetta pasta salad is the perfect marriage of two beloved dishes: the zesty freshness of classic Italian bruschetta and the satisfying comfort of pasta salad. Bursting with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and al dente pasta, this dish is a celebration of simplicity and bold flavor.
Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a potluck side dish, or a refreshing main course, bruschetta pasta salad delivers big on taste and presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Bruschetta Pasta Salad
- Fresh and vibrant – Loaded with garden-fresh ingredients.
- Quick to prepare – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile – Serve warm, chilled, or at room temperature.
- Make-ahead friendly – Flavors get better as it sits.
- Vegetarian and customizable – Easily adapted to dietary needs.
Ingredients for Bruschetta Pasta Salad
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie) | 12 oz |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 2 cups |
| Fresh basil, chiffonade or chopped | 1 cup |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2–3 |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | ¼ cup |
| Balsamic vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh mozzarella pearls | 1 cup |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Optional: Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp |
| Optional: Toasted pine nuts or croutons | For crunch |
How to Make Bruschetta Pasta Salad
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Bruschetta Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Halved cherry tomatoes
- Minced garlic
- Fresh basil
- Salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes
- Add olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes so the tomatoes release their juices and the flavors meld.
3. Combine and Toss
- Add cooled pasta to the bowl with the bruschetta mixture.
- Toss gently until everything is coated evenly.
- Fold in mozzarella pearls and optional crunchy toppings.
- Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pro Tip: If making ahead, reserve some fresh basil to stir in just before serving for maximum aroma and color.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ons
Add Protein
- Grilled chicken
- Sliced Italian sausage
- Chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian boost
Cheese Upgrades
- Shaved Parmesan
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese
Crunch Factor
- Garlic croutons
- Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds
Fresh Twists
- Swap basil for arugula or parsley
- Add diced avocado just before serving
What to Serve With Bruschetta Pasta Salad
- Grilled meats like steak, chicken, or fish
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- Charcuterie boards or antipasti platters
- Fresh lemon water or crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Stir before serving to redistribute dressing and flavors.
- Add a splash of olive oil if pasta feels dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
We don’t recommend it. Fresh basil is key for that bold, authentic bruschetta flavor.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta with grooves (like rotini or bowtie) holds the dressing and toppings best.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, it’s better after a few hours of marinating in the fridge.
Is it served warm or cold?
Either works. It’s commonly served chilled or at room temp but is just as tasty slightly warm.
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 5g |
The Final Forkful
Bruschetta pasta salad brings together the heart of Italian cuisine in one colorful, crave-worthy bowl. It’s light, tangy, herby, and deeply satisfying with every bite. This dish is guaranteed to become a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners, BBQs, and everything in between.
