Delicious Bruschetta Pasta Salad – Light, Fresh & Perfect for Summer
A vibrant pasta salad inspired by classic bruschetta—bursting with cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and creamy bocconcini for a refreshing no-cook meal.
🎉 Introduction
Looking for a fresh, flavorful, and easy meal that’s perfect for warm weather? This Bruschetta Pasta Salad delivers all the vibrant taste of bruschetta—with a twist! Juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and mini bocconcini cheese are tossed with al dente pasta, olive oil, and red wine vinegar to create a simple yet delightful salad that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or light dinners. 🌞🍅🧀
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Saucepan for pasta
- Colander
- Cutting board & knife
- Garlic press or microplane (optional)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
🌿 Produce & Fresh
- 1 oz fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
- 24 oz cherry tomatoes halved
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- ½ small shallot finely chopped
🍝 Pasta & Salad Base
- 2 cups small dry pasta penne, rotini, or shells
- Salt and pepper to taste
🥗 Dressing & Bread
- 2½ tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 large slices sourdough bread cut into cubes or torn
🧀 Cheese
- 6 oz mini bocconcini halved
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente.
- Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to cool. Set aside.
Step 2: Prep Toppings
- In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped shallot, and sliced basil.
- Add olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss gently.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Add the cooled pasta to the tomato-basil mixture.
- Gently fold in mini bocconcini.
- Add sourdough cubes just before serving for crunch, or serve them on the side.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
- Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes so flavors meld—or serve immediately!
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more vinegar to taste.
Notes
🥄 Variations
Gluten-Free: Use GF pasta and omit the bread cubes Protein-Boost: Add sliced grilled chicken or chickpeas Heat Factor: Drizzle with crushed red pepper or spicy Italian dressing Vegan Option: Omit bocconcini or use dairy-free cheese Extra Crunch: Add cucumber, bell peppers, or toasted pine nuts 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days—add bread cubes just before serving. Freezer: Not recommended (lettuce and bocconcini don’t freeze well). Leftover Tip: Serve over greens or stuffed into pita for next-day lunches. ❓ 10 FAQs
Do I need to toast the bread?
No—but a quick toast gives extra crunch and flavor. Can I use regular mozzarella?
Yes—dice fresh mozzarella, or use burrata for decadence. Is it better served chilled?
Yes—as cooling helps flavors meld, but it’s also tasty served right away. Can I prep in advance?
Make 1 day ahead (without bread) and add crisp elements before serving. What pasta shape should I use?
Small shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle work best. Is it keto-friendly?
Omit pasta and baguette cubes—serve tomato dressing over greens. Can I use balsamic vinegar instead?
Absolutely—balsamic adds a sweeter, richer flavor. Can I use frozen basil?
Fresh basil is better, but a spoonful of pesto works in a pinch. How do I keep it from getting soggy?
Add bread just before serving and keep dressing separate until ready. Does it hold up for picnics?
Yes—great for outdoor meals; send bread or croutons separately. 🏁 Conclusion
This Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a cool, vibrant celebration of fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and creamy cheese—perfect for summer lunches, casual gatherings, or any time you're craving bright, no-fuss flavor. Toss together in minutes, chill, and enjoy a colorful, satisfying bowl that’s as easy as it is elegant. 🥗🌿🍽
Gluten-Free: Use GF pasta and omit the bread cubes Protein-Boost: Add sliced grilled chicken or chickpeas Heat Factor: Drizzle with crushed red pepper or spicy Italian dressing Vegan Option: Omit bocconcini or use dairy-free cheese Extra Crunch: Add cucumber, bell peppers, or toasted pine nuts 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days—add bread cubes just before serving. Freezer: Not recommended (lettuce and bocconcini don’t freeze well). Leftover Tip: Serve over greens or stuffed into pita for next-day lunches. ❓ 10 FAQs
Do I need to toast the bread?
No—but a quick toast gives extra crunch and flavor. Can I use regular mozzarella?
Yes—dice fresh mozzarella, or use burrata for decadence. Is it better served chilled?
Yes—as cooling helps flavors meld, but it’s also tasty served right away. Can I prep in advance?
Make 1 day ahead (without bread) and add crisp elements before serving. What pasta shape should I use?
Small shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle work best. Is it keto-friendly?
Omit pasta and baguette cubes—serve tomato dressing over greens. Can I use balsamic vinegar instead?
Absolutely—balsamic adds a sweeter, richer flavor. Can I use frozen basil?
Fresh basil is better, but a spoonful of pesto works in a pinch. How do I keep it from getting soggy?
Add bread just before serving and keep dressing separate until ready. Does it hold up for picnics?
Yes—great for outdoor meals; send bread or croutons separately. 🏁 Conclusion
This Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a cool, vibrant celebration of fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and creamy cheese—perfect for summer lunches, casual gatherings, or any time you're craving bright, no-fuss flavor. Toss together in minutes, chill, and enjoy a colorful, satisfying bowl that’s as easy as it is elegant. 🥗🌿🍽