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Bruschetta Pasta Salad

Bruschetta Pasta Salad: A Fresh Twist on an Italian Classic

This Bruschetta Pasta Salad combines fresh ingredients and Italian flavors for a vibrant and refreshing dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Small Pasta Shape Such as penne or cavatappi
For the Salad
  • 24 oz Cherry Tomatoes Halved, vine-ripened preferred
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 1/2 small Shallot Chopped
  • 6 oz Mini Bocconcini Or grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • 1 oz Fresh Basil Leaves Can substitute with parsley
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil Any quality olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Or balsamic vinegar
  • Salt To taste
  • Pepper To taste
For the Crunch
  • 2 large slices Sourdough Bread Optional for homemade breadcrumbs
  • 1.5 tsp Olive Oil for Breadcrumbs Lightly flavored oils can also be used
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Optional

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Large salad bowl
  • toaster or broiler
  • food processor
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large salad bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, shallot, mini bocconcini, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and basil. Season with salt and pepper, and toss.
  3. Toast sourdough bread until golden brown, then cool and pulse in a food processor to make breadcrumbs.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add breadcrumbs and garlic powder (if using). Cook until crispy and golden.
  5. Combine drained pasta with the salad mixture, fold in toasted breadcrumbs, and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients and ensure pasta is completely cooled before mixing. Store breadcrumbs separately until serving to maintain crunch.

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