Description
Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a vibrant and fresh pasta salad featuring tender orecchiette, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil. Tossed in a simple yet flavorful dressing made of extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, this dish offers a delightful twist on classic bruschetta, perfect as a summer side or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb. orecchiette
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Salad
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 pt. cherry tomatoes, preferably multi-colored, halved
- 1/4 cup torn fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the orecchiette according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season this mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste preferences, ensuring a balanced and flavorful dressing.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, minced garlic, and halved cherry tomatoes. Pour the prepared dressing over these ingredients and toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Garnish and serve: Finally, garnish the pasta salad with torn fresh basil for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately or chilled, depending on your preference.
Notes
- This bruschetta pasta salad is an excellent summer side dish, celebrating the freshness of cherry tomatoes and basil.
- You can use multi-colored cherry tomatoes for a more vibrant presentation.
- Adjust the seasoning of the dressing with salt and pepper to your taste.
- For added depth, consider adding fresh mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- This recipe pairs well with grilled meats or as a light vegetarian main course.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 562
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 515 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 85 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
