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Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Pasta Salad

Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Pasta Salad for a Fresh Summer Feast

This Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a perfect, refreshing summer dish bursting with flavor and freshness.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Mafalde corta or lasagnette Feel free to substitute with any short pasta you have on hand.
For the Dressing
  • 3 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil Perfect for sautéing and enhancing flavor.
  • 2 cloves Minced garlic Using fresh garlic will give the best results.
  • 2 tbsp White wine vinegar Balsamic vinegar can be swapped for a sweeter profile.
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano Fresh oregano can intensify the flavor if available.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Salad
  • 2 cups Cherry tomatoes The star ingredient that brings sweetness and juiciness.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella pearls Consider using diced mozzarella or vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup Basil Chiffonade for the best flavor.
For the Crunch
  • 1 cup Sourdough croutons Toasted or pre-packaged croutons can be used.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmigiano Reggiano Optional for those making a vegan version.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the mafalde corta or lasagnette pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Tear the bread into bite-sized pieces and heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add olive oil and the bread pieces, sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Set aside.
  3. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Remove from heat and mix in the halved cherry tomatoes, white wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the marinated tomato mixture, mozzarella pearls, basil, and half of the croutons. Toss gently.
  6. Serve in a large bowl or plates, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and sprinkle remaining croutons and Parmigiano Reggiano on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Add croutons just before serving to maintain crunchiness. For best flavor, marinate the tomato mixture for at least 30 minutes.

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