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Delicious Bruschetta Pasta Salad: The Perfect Summer Side Dish

This Bruschetta Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of Italian bruschetta with satisfying pasta for the ultimate summer side dish. Inspired by traditional Italian appetizers, this recipe transforms fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic into a vibrant salad perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or light summer meals.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 ounces fusilli or rotini pasta
  • 2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. While pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and place in a large mixing bowl. Add finely diced red onion, minced garlic, chopped basil, and parsley. If using pine nuts, toast them lightly in a dry skillet until fragrant.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Shake or whisk until well combined.
  4. Add cooled pasta to the tomato mixture. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Let sit for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
  5. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.

Notes

Choose short, textured pastas like fusilli or rotini that hold dressing well. Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness. Salad tastes better after marinating for a few hours. Use high-quality fresh ingredients for best results.