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Bruschetta Pasta Salad

This Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a fresh Italian-inspired dish loaded with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or as a light dinner, this easy balsamic pasta salad is bursting with Mediterranean flavor. Serve cold or at room temperature for a refreshing twist on classic pasta salad!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta penne, rotini, or bow-tie
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella
  • ½ cup chopped fresh basil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional additions: ¼ cup sliced red onion ½ cup chopped olives, or ½ cup salami (for antipasto-style salad)

Method
 

  1. Cook Pasta:
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  3. Prepare Dressing:
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  5. Combine Ingredients:
  6. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and any optional ingredients.
  7. Toss with Dressing:
  8. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well combined.
  9. Chill and Serve:
  10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, drizzle balsamic glaze over the top before serving.
  • Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for a high-protein variation.
  • This Bruschetta Pasta Salad tastes even better the next day — perfect for meal prep or parties.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.