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–+ servings
Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Pasta Salad

Bursting Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Pasta Salad for Summer Fun

This Cherry Tomato Bruschetta Pasta Salad celebrates summer with fresh flavors and textures, perfect for warm gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces mafalde corta or lasagnette pasta Can substitute with any short pasta like fusilli or penne.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Can use light olive oil for a lighter taste.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced; roasted garlic can be sweeter.
  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar Can swap with lemon juice.
  • 1 teaspoon oregano Use fresh if available.
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
For the Salad
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes Halved or quartered; grape tomatoes can be a substitute.
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls Feta can be a replacement.
  • 1/2 cup basil Chiffonade; dried basil can be used.
  • 1 cup toasted sourdough croutons Can use whole wheat bread.
  • 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano Grated; Pecorino Romano can substitute.
  • to taste balsamic glaze Can reduce balsamic vinegar to make.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • medium bowl
  • Skillet
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and cool.
  2. Prepare croutons by tossing torn sourdough with olive oil and salt, then toasting in a skillet for 5-7 minutes until golden.
  3. Sauté minced garlic in olive oil over low-medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Do not burn.
  4. Mix sautéed garlic, cherry tomatoes, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper in the skillet. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, marinated tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, half of the croutons, and Parmigiano. Toss to coat.
  6. Plate the salad and top with remaining croutons, extra Parmigiano, and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
  7. Add croutons just before serving if making ahead to keep them crunchy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, use high-quality ingredients and serve fresh. This salad is versatile and can be a main dish or a side at picnics.

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