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Bruschetta Pasta Salad with Mini Mozzarella Balls

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A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad that combines the flavors of classic bruschetta with the heartiness of pasta, featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups small pasta shape, dry
  • 24 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 a small shallot, chopped
  • 6 ounces mini bocconcini (mozzarella balls), halved
  • 1 ounce fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
  • Salt + pepper, to taste
  • 2 large slices sourdough bread (or other bread of choice)
  • 1.5 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add in the pasta and cook according to package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.
  2. Prep Salad: While your pasta cooks, turn your attention to the remaining salad ingredients. In a large salad bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped shallot, mini bocconcini, fresh basil, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss lightly but well, allowing the ingredients to meld together as they rest.
  3. Make Breadcrumbs: Toast your bread slices in a toaster until golden. Tear the toasted bread into pieces and place them into a food processor. Pulse until you achieve small crumbs. Next, heat 1.5 tsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breadcrumb mixture along with the optional garlic powder. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the breadcrumbs turn crispy and golden, stirring frequently.
  4. Combine and Serve: In the large salad bowl, add the drained pasta and toasted breadcrumbs to the salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine, making sure everything is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately, or let it rest for a short while to enhance the flavors even further.

Notes

For maximum freshness, prepare the salad ingredients separately and combine them just before serving. This dish can easily be customized by adding other ingredients such as olives or grilled chicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, bruschetta, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, summer salad

Find it online: https://oliviatable.com/bruschetta-pasta-salad-mini-mozzarella-balls/