This Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of pasta, fresh tomatoes, and basil, all tossed in a tasty garlic dressing. It’s perfect for summer picnics or a quick weeknight dinner!
I love how fast this salad comes together. Just cook the pasta, chop the veggies, and mix! It’s a great way to enjoy flavors of bruschetta without all the fuss. 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti for this recipe, but any pasta like penne or rotini works great too. You could even use whole wheat or gluten-free options if needed!
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes are key. If they’re out of season, try cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes for sweetness. You can also use canned diced tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh, dried basil can work in a pinch, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Red Onion: Red onion gives a nice bite, but if it’s too strong for you, a sweet onion or green onions can be milder alternatives.
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta al dente is crucial for a great pasta salad. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a large pot of salted boiling water. It helps in flavoring the pasta.
- Add the pasta and stir during the first minute to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to the package instructions, but check it a minute before for that perfect al dente texture (tender yet firm).
- Once done, drain and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down.
This method ensures your pasta holds up in the salad and doesn’t turn mushy!
How to Make Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra whole leaves for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and serve. It includes around 10 minutes for cooking the pasta and 10 minutes for mixing and letting the flavors come together. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, as indicated on the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop cooking. Drain well to remove excess water.
2. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, and the chopped fresh basil. This will be the fresh and flavorful base of your salad.
3. Make the Dressing:
To the tomato mixture, add the extra-virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar). Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything gently to combine and ensure the veggies are coated with the dressing.
4. Combine Pasta and Veggies:
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the tomato mixture. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated in the delicious dressing and combined with the veggies.
5. Let It Rest:
Allow the pasta salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This resting time lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, give your pasta salad one last gentle toss and garnish with whole basil leaves for a fresh pop. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature!
This fresh and vibrant Bruschetta Pasta Salad captures all the classic bruschetta flavors, making for a satisfying and easy dish. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
FAQ for Easy Bruschetta Pasta Salad
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is the classic choice, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions specific to the pasta you choose!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to add a splash of olive oil or vinegar before serving again to revive the flavors.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead! Prepare the pasta salad up to a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just add the basil garnish right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize the salad with other veggies! Consider adding bell peppers, cucumber, or even mozzarella cheese for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them small enough for easy eating!
