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Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Pasta Salad

Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Pasta Salad for Summer Bliss

A refreshing Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Pasta Salad that combines vibrant flavors and simple ingredients, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Mafalde Corta or Lasagnette Pasta Can substitute with fusilli or rotini.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Use high-quality for best flavor.
  • 2 tbsp White Wine Vinegar Can substitute with red wine vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 6 Garlic Cloves, minced Adjust based on preference.
  • Salt and Pepper to Taste Season generously.
For the Salad
  • 2 pints Cherry Tomatoes, halved or quartered Grape tomatoes can be used as an alternative.
  • 1/2 tbsp Oregano Fresh oregano elevates the flavor.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Pearls Cubed mozzarella or bocconcini work well too.
  • 1/3 cup Basil Chiffonade Fresh basil adds aroma, can substitute with parsley.
For Toppings
  • 1 cup Toasted Sourdough Croutons Can create croutons from any bread.
  • 1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated Grated Parmesan can be used as an alternative.
  • Balsamic Glaze Drizzle on top for a tangy-sweet finish.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Pan

Method
 

How to Make Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Pasta Salad
  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Mafalde Corta pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let it cool.
  2. Prepare Croutons: Tear sourdough bread into small bite-sized pieces. In a pan, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat. Toast the bread for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crunchy.
  3. Sauté Garlic: In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  4. Marinate Tomatoes: Remove the garlic from heat and toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, white wine vinegar, oregano, as well as salt and pepper. Let this mixture marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
  5. Combine Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the marinated tomatoes and their flavorful juices. Add the mozzarella pearls, basil chiffonade, half of the toasted croutons, and half of the grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Toss gently to mix.
  6. Serve: Plate your salad beautifully and top it with the remaining croutons, more Parmigiano, and a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze for that sweet tangy finish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Optional: Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

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