Bruschetta Pasta Salad – Fresh, Garlicky & Summer-Ready

Bruschetta Pasta Salad combines everything you love about classic bruschetta—juicy tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil—with tender pasta for a refreshing and satisfying cold salad. It’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, and easy meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh tomato and basil flavor
• Easy cold pasta salad
• Perfect for summer gatherings
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Great make-ahead dish
• Light yet satisfying
• Vegetarian-friendly
• Bold garlic flavor
• Works as side or main dish

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls (optional)

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. Drain and rinse under cold water.
3. Set pasta aside to cool completely.
4. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, basil, onion, and garlic.
5. Add cooled pasta to the bowl.
6. Stir in mozzarella pearls if using.
7. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, pepper, and oregano.
8. Pour dressing over pasta mixture.
9. Toss everything gently until well coated.
10. Chill for at least 20 minutes before serving.
11. Stir again before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier version
• Add grilled chicken for protein
• Replace mozzarella with feta cheese
• Add cucumber for extra crunch
• Use grape tomatoes for sweetness
• Add avocado before serving
• Mix in arugula for peppery flavor
• Use fresh lemon juice instead of vinegar
• Add chili flakes for heat
• Serve warm or cold

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store in refrigerator up to 3–4 days
• Keep in airtight container
• Stir before serving
• Do not freeze

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• BBQ side dish
• Picnic salad
• Potluck favorite
• Light lunch meal
• Summer dinner side
• Meal prep bowls
• Party dish
• Fresh appetizer
• Pasta salad buffet
• Outdoor gatherings

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, but homemade gives better fresh flavor.

What pasta works best?

Short pasta like rotini or penne holds the dressing well.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, simply skip the mozzarella or use vegan cheese.

Ready to Make It?

This Bruschetta Pasta Salad is fresh, garlicky, and packed with bright Mediterranean flavors, making it a perfect easy dish for any occasion.

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