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Bruschetta Pasta Salad Recipe

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4 from 47 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a fresh, flavorful twist on the classic bruschetta appetizer, combining tender orecchiette pasta with juicy Roma tomatoes, red onion, basil, mozzarella pearls, and parmesan cheese, all tossed in a tangy white balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this chilled pasta salad is easy to prepare and packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 6 cups cooked orecchiette pasta

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 4 Roma tomatoes, diced
  • 1 small red onion, diced
  • ½ cup fresh basil, chopped

Dairy

  • ⅓ cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 8 ounce package mozzarella pearls

Dressing & Seasoning

  • 3 Tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 2 Tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh ground pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Prepare the orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down for the salad.
  2. Prepare vegetables and herbs: While the pasta cooks, dice the Roma tomatoes and red onion finely. Chop the fresh basil leaves to release their aroma and flavor.
  3. Combine ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add the cooled pasta, diced tomatoes, diced onion, chopped basil, shredded parmesan cheese, and mozzarella pearls. Gently toss to mix evenly.
  4. Make the dressing and toss: Pour olive oil and white balsamic vinegar over the salad. Sprinkle garlic powder, then season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Toss well to coat all ingredients.
  5. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for up to 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the salad chill. Serve cold for a refreshing appetizer or side dish.

Notes

  • Ensure pasta is thoroughly cooled to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
  • You can substitute mozzarella pearls with diced fresh mozzarella cheese if preferred.
  • White balsamic vinegar gives a milder flavor than regular balsamic, but you can adjust to taste.
  • For a more robust flavor, add a splash of extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
  • This salad is best consumed within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://kitchenloving.com/bruschetta-pasta-salad-recipe/