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Bruschetta Pasta Salad Recipe - Fresh Tomato Basil Italian Summer Salad

This vibrant bruschetta pasta salad brings classic Italian appetizer flavors to an easy, crowd-pleasing side dish that's perfect for summer gatherings. With fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, it's the ultimate healthy side dish for BBQs, picnics, and potlucks.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 oz fusilli or penne pasta
  • 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls or diced mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

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.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, red onion, and chopped basil.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with extra basil before serving.

Notes

This salad tastes better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Use short pasta shapes with grooves to hold dressing better. Cherry tomatoes work best as they're less watery. Wait to add fresh basil until just before serving to maintain vibrant color.