Bruschetta Pasta Salad – A Fresh and Flavorful Summer Dish

This Bruschetta Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of tomato bruschetta with a light and fresh pasta salad. Juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil bring a burst of flavor, while bocconcini (mini mozzarella) adds a creamy touch. The optional homemade sourdough breadcrumbs bring in a delightful crunch, just like traditional bruschetta. Perfect for a summer BBQ, picnic, or as a satisfying packed lunch, this recipe is both nutritious and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups small pasta (e.g., bowtie or penne)
  
  

• 24 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
  
  

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• ½ small shallot, chopped
  
  

• 6 ounces mini bocconcini cheese, halved
  
  

• 1 ounce fresh basil leaves, chopped
  
  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
  

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

• For the homemade breadcrumbs (optional but recommended)
  
  

  • 2 large slices sourdough bread (or any bread of choice)
    
    

  • 1.5 teaspoons olive oil
    
    

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
    
    

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside to cool.
   
   

2. In a large salad bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped shallot, bocconcini, olive oil, red wine vinegar, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
   
   

3. While the pasta cooks, prepare the breadcrumbs. Toast the bread in a toaster and tear into smaller pieces. Use a food processor to pulse the bread into small crumbs.
   
   

4. Heat 1.5 teaspoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breadcrumbs and garlic powder, stirring frequently until the breadcrumbs are crispy and golden.
   
   

5. Add the cooled pasta and crispy breadcrumbs to the salad mixture. Toss everything together and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if desired.
   
   

6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for a few hours for a chilled version. Enjoy!
   
   

Nutritional Value

• Calories: 350
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 48g
  
  

• Protein: 12g
  
  

• Fat: 14g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 4g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 15mg
  
  

• Sodium: 370mg
  
  

• Potassium: 250mg
  
  

• Fiber: 4g
  
  

• Sugar: 5g
  
  

• Vitamin A: 200 IU
  
  

• Vitamin C: 25mg
  
  

• Calcium: 150mg
  
  

• Iron: 2mg