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Bruschetta Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 2 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Bruschetta Pasta Salad combining al dente spaghetti with a flavorful tomato basil bruschetta mixture, drizzled with balsamic glaze and accented by optional cheeses like Parmesan or burrata for a delightful, easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish.

Ingredients

Bruschetta Mixture

  • 4 Vine Ripen Tomatoes, diced (or any variety)
  • 1/2 small Red Onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Basil, chopped, plus more for garnish
  • 1 Clove Garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp Oregano
  • 1/4 tsp Fine Sea Salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 3 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (for bruschetta mixture)

Pasta

  • 500 g Spaghetti Pasta, or pasta of choice
  • 2 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (for pasta)

Optional Toppings

  • Parmesan Cheese, Burrata, Crumbled Feta, or Goat Cheese, as desired
  • 3 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar Glaze, as desired

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 500 grams of spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly once cooked.
  2. Prepare the Bruschetta Mixture: While the pasta cooks, dice the vine ripened tomatoes and red onion, then place them in a medium-sized bowl. Add the chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly and let the mixture marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to develop flavors.
  3. Toss Pasta with Bruschetta: After draining, return the pasta to the pot or transfer it to a large heatproof serving bowl or skillet. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over the pasta and toss to coat. Add the bruschetta mixture and toss everything together until well combined.
  4. Finish and Serve: Season the combined salad to taste with additional salt or pepper if desired. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for sweetness and acidity. Garnish with extra fresh basil and your choice of cheese such as Parmesan, burrata, feta, or goat cheese if using. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor experience.

Notes

  • Make Your Own Balsamic Glaze – Combine 2 cups of good quality balsamic vinegar with 1/2 cup brown sugar or honey (optional). Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has reduced by half and coats the back of a spoon. Adjust sweetness to your liking.
  • Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor in the bruschetta mixture.
  • Marinating the tomato mixture allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste of the salad.
  • For a vegan version, omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
  • Serve this salad immediately after tossing to avoid sogginess.