Description
A delightful twist on traditional bruschetta, this pasta salad combines garlic, basil, and tomatoes with al dente pasta for a refreshing dish perfect for gatherings or as a light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (bow tie or penne)
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, fresh basil, and garlic.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
- Pour vinaigrette over the tomato mixture and toss. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the tomato mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Gently fold in fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Top with toasted pine nuts if desired.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Notes
This salad can be served warm or cold. It holds up well in the refrigerator for a few days. Great for picnics and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg