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Ultimate Bruschetta Pasta Salad Recipe: Fresh Tomato Basil Italian Delight

This vibrant Italian-inspired pasta salad combines classic bruschetta flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic with al dente pasta, creating a refreshing summer side dish perfect for BBQs, picnics, and potlucks. Ready in just 30 minutes, this make-ahead salad features juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella for a crowd-pleasing dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 12 oz pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini work best)
  • 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls or diced mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing will coat every ingredient perfectly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, and chopped basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

This salad actually tastes better the next day as the flavors intensify. Perfect for make-ahead meal prep. Use ripe, in-season cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Short pasta shapes like fusilli or penne hold the dressing and ingredients better than long noodles.