Delicious Bruschetta Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Fresh Basil

This Delicious Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a refreshing, vegetarian-friendly dish that perfectly combines the bright flavors of summer. Inspired by the classic Italian appetizer, bruschetta, this salad features juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic fresh basil, creamy mozzarella balls, and a hint of garlic and shallots tossed together with pasta. For added texture and a satisfying crunch, optional toasted breadcrumbs elevate the salad to a full sensory experience.

Whether served as a side dish at a summer barbecue, a light lunch, or a potluck favorite, this pasta salad is easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with fresh, bold flavors. The combination of acidic cherry tomatoes, rich mozzarella, and the fragrant notes of fresh basil creates a harmonious balance that is both visually appealing and palate-pleasing. The optional breadcrumbs add a golden, crispy contrast that makes this salad feel indulgent without being heavy.

This recipe is ideal for cooks who want a quick, flavorful, and colorful salad with minimal effort, yet impressive enough for entertaining. Its cold-serving nature makes it perfect for preparing ahead of time, keeping ingredients fresh and flavors vibrant.

Why This Recipe Works

This salad works because it balances freshness, creaminess, and texture in a single bowl. Each component contributes to a harmonious and flavorful whole:

Flavor Layering

• Cherry tomatoes: Bursting with natural sweetness and acidity.

• Fresh basil: Adds herbal brightness and aromatic depth.

• Mozzarella balls (bocconcini): Provide creamy, mild richness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

• Garlic and shallots: Deliver subtle pungency and savory notes.

• Red wine vinegar and olive oil: Create a light vinaigrette that ties all flavors together.

• Optional breadcrumbs: Introduce a toasted, slightly nutty crunch for texture contrast.

Technique

• Cooking pasta al dente ensures it holds up to tossing without becoming mushy.

• Letting the salad sit briefly after combining the vegetables allows flavors to meld.

• Toasting breadcrumbs enhances aroma and gives a fresh contrast to soft pasta and creamy mozzarella.

Cooking Logic

1. Cook pasta first to serve as a neutral, filling base.

2. Combine the salad base ingredients to let flavors develop while pasta cools.

3. Toast breadcrumbs at the end to preserve crunch.

4. Toss pasta, salad base, and breadcrumbs together just before serving for optimal texture.

This sequence guarantees every bite is balanced, flavorful, and texturally satisfying.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Salad / Side Dish / Vegetarian
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired / Fusion

Ingredient Breakdown

Salad Ingredients

• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like bowties, cavatappi, or penne are ideal because they capture the dressing and small ingredients in each bite.

• Cherry tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and slightly acidic; they are the star of the salad and bring vibrant color.

• Garlic and Shallots: Fresh aromatics elevate the salad with pungency and depth without overpowering other ingredients.

• Mozzarella balls: Mild and creamy, adding richness and texture. Halved bocconcini works best for even bites.

• Fresh basil: Adds fresh, herbal notes that echo traditional bruschetta flavors.

• Olive oil: Enhances flavor and ensures the dressing clings to pasta and vegetables.

• Red wine vinegar: Provides acidity to balance richness and enhance the overall taste.

• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

Optional Crunchy Breadcrumbs

• Bread slices: Sourdough or any crusty bread toasted and pulsed creates golden, crisp crumbs.

• Olive oil: Lightly coats breadcrumbs for even toasting.

• Garlic powder (optional): Adds subtle flavor and aroma to breadcrumbs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.

3. Drain and set aside, allowing it to cool slightly before combining with other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped shallot, and halved mozzarella balls.

2. Add chopped fresh basil, olive oil, and red wine vinegar.

3. Season generously with salt and pepper, and toss gently to coat evenly.

4. Allow the mixture to sit for 5–10 minutes for flavors to meld.

Step 3: Make the Breadcrumbs (Optional)

1. Toast bread slices in a toaster or oven until slightly golden.

2. Tear into pieces and pulse in a food processor until small crumbs form.

3. Heat 1½ teaspoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Add breadcrumbs and 1 teaspoon garlic powder, stirring frequently for 5 minutes until golden and crisp.

5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the salad bowl.

2. Gently fold in the toasted breadcrumbs, if using, to maintain texture contrast.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper as needed.

4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. If storing, keep breadcrumbs separate until serving to maintain crunch.

Texture and Flavor Profile

• Pasta: Soft yet al dente, acting as a neutral base.

• Tomatoes: Juicy, sweet, and slightly acidic.

• Mozzarella: Creamy, rich, and slightly chewy.

• Basil: Aromatic with herbal brightness.

• Breadcrumbs: Golden, crisp, and slightly nutty (optional).

• Overall: Balanced, fresh, and flavorful with layers of texture in every bite.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for maximum sweetness.

• Let pasta cool slightly before tossing to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.

• Chop basil finely to distribute flavor evenly.

• Toast breadcrumbs last to preserve crunch.

• Adjust vinegar and oil ratios to taste, depending on sweetness of tomatoes.

• Serve at room temperature for best flavor.

Variations

1. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

2. Vegan Version: Substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese or cubed tofu.

3. Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts instead of breadcrumbs.

4. Dressing Twist: Use balsamic glaze drizzle for additional sweetness and acidity.

5. Pasta Swap: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or quinoa pasta for dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood.

• Pair with a light vinaigrette or extra olive oil drizzle for enhanced flavor.

• Great for potlucks, picnics, or lunch boxes.

• Can be served as a main course for vegetarian meals with added protein.

Storage and Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Keep breadcrumbs separate if storing to maintain crispiness.

• Can be served cold or at room temperature.

• Toss gently before serving to redistribute dressing.

Nutrition Overview (per serving, without breadcrumbs)

• Calories: 350 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 40 g

• Protein: 12 g

• Fat: 15 g

• Saturated Fat: 5 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 5 g

• Sodium: varies with added salt

• Vitamin C: high from tomatoes and basil

This salad provides a balanced vegetarian meal with fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and moderate carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare salad base and pasta separately. Combine just before serving, adding breadcrumbs at the last minute.

Can I use frozen mozzarella balls?
Fresh or thawed mozzarella works best. Avoid directly using frozen balls as they may release excess moisture.

Is this salad suitable for kids?
Absolutely. The fresh flavors and mild seasonings make it appealing for all ages.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes. Cucumbers, bell peppers, or roasted zucchini can enhance flavor and nutrition.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs, or skip breadcrumbs entirely.

This Delicious Bruschetta Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of freshness, creaminess, and crunch, making it a standout salad for summer meals, picnics, potlucks, or light dinners. With simple, wholesome ingredients and quick preparation, it offers vibrant flavor, beautiful color, and versatile serving options. The optional breadcrumbs elevate texture, while the classic combination of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella keeps the salad bright and authentic.

Whether served immediately or prepared ahead for a gathering, this pasta salad is crowd-pleasing, easy to customize, and healthy, making it a staple recipe to keep in your culinary repertoire year-round.

Bruschetta Pasta Salad

Ava Thompson

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course pasta

Cuisine American / Italian-Inspired

Servings 3

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

• Salad:
• 2 cups small pasta such as bowties, cavatappi, or penne, dry
• 24 oz about 5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• ½ small shallot finely chopped
• 6 oz mini mozzarella balls bocconcini, halved
• 1 oz fresh basil leaves chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional Crunchy Breadcrumbs:
• 2 slices sourdough bread or any bread of choice
• 1½ teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional

Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Prepare the Salad Base:
• In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped shallot, mozzarella balls, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper, then toss gently. Let the flavors mingle while you prepare the breadcrumbs.
• Make the Breadcrumbs (Optional):
• Toast bread slices in a toaster, then tear into pieces and pulse in a food processor until small crumbs form.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add breadcrumbs and garlic powder. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and crunchy. Remove from heat.
• Assemble the Salad:
• Add the drained pasta and toasted breadcrumbs to the salad bowl. Toss everything together carefully. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
• Serve:
• Enjoy immediately as a fresh, crunchy pasta salad, or refrigerate for later. If storing, keep breadcrumbs separate to maintain crunch until serving.

Notes

This cold bruschetta pasta salad is a vegetarian-friendly dish bursting with fresh flavors. The combination of juicy tomatoes, basil, creamy mozzarella, and optional crunchy breadcrumbs makes it perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a packed lunch.