This summer pasta salad is exactly what you need when the temperature rises! It’s quick, requires minimal cooking (just boiling pasta), and bursts with vibrant, fresh, bruschetta-inspired tomato flavors. Perfect for warm days when heavy cooking is the last thing on your mind.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and Fresh: The combination of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic dressing gives this dish its summery appeal.
- Simple Prep: With just a few steps—boil pasta, chop ingredients, toss everything together—you’ll have a crowd-pleaser ready in no time.
- Versatile: Serve it as a light main meal or a hearty side dish at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.
Bruschetta summer pasta salad Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) penne or your choice of short pasta
- 1 kg (2 lbs) ripe tomatoes, diced (retain the juices)
- ½ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup packed fresh basil leaves, finely sliced
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: toasted pine nuts and balsamic glaze for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until tender. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small jar, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake well to mix.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with half of the dressing. Toss until well-coated.
- Tomato Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine diced tomatoes (with juices), basil, and the remaining dressing. Let it sit for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Assemble Salad: Add the tomato mixture to the pasta. Gently fold in Parmesan cheese.
- Finishing Touches: Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts, and serve immediately.
Tips for Success:
- Soft-Cooked Pasta: Slightly overcook the pasta for a tender texture that absorbs the dressing beautifully.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prep the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Add finishing touches right before serving.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of this Bruschetta Summer Pasta Salad—a dish that embodies the essence of summer with every bite!
