Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing dish that’s packed with flavor, then this Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls is just the ticket! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made this delightful salad for gatherings or even just a cozy dinner at home. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil blends perfectly with the creamy mini mozzarella balls. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing for a picnic, or simply needing a quick meal on busy weeknights, this pasta salad fits every occasion. Plus, it takes just over 30 minutes to whip up—how great is that?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just over half an hour, you have a delicious dish ready to enjoy.
• Packed with Fresh Flavors: Juicy tomatoes and fresh basil bring a burst of freshness to every bite.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the colorful presentation and tasty ingredients.
• Customizable Crunch: The optional sourdough breadcrumbs add an irresistible texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious dish!

For the Salad

• 2 cups small pasta shape, dry
• Approx. 24 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved (roughly 680 grams or 5 cups)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 a small shallot, chopped
• Approx. 6 ounces mini bocconcini (mozzarella balls), halved (roughly 180 grams)
• Approx. 1 ounce fresh basil leaves, chopped (28 grams or one standard package)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 Tbsp apple vinegar vinegar
• Salt + pepper, to taste

For the Breadcrumbs

• 2 large slices sourdough bread (or other bread of choice)
• 1.5 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adjust it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add Some Protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Mix Up the Cheese: Try using feta or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate diced cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch.
• Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you like heat.

How to Make Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook your chosen small pasta according to the package directions. Cooking the pasta until al dente ensures it holds up well in the salad. Once cooked, drain the pasta but save some cooking water if needed later.

Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients

While your pasta cooks, it’s time to prepare the rest of your salad ingredients! In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped shallot, halved bocconcini, olive oil, apple vinegar vinegar, chopped basil leaves, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together gently and let it sit so those flavors can mingle.

Step 3: Make the Breadcrumbs

Toast your sourdough bread until golden brown. Then tear it into smaller pieces and pulse them in a food processor until they resemble crumbs. This step adds fantastic texture! Next, heat 1.5 teaspoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add in your breadcrumbs along with garlic powder if using. Stir occasionally until they’re crispy—about five minutes will do!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Finally, add your drained pasta and crunchy breadcrumbs to the salad mixture. Toss everything together until well combined while adjusting seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary. And there you have it—a beautiful Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls ready to enjoy!

Now go ahead and dig in; I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Pro Tips for Making Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls

Creating the perfect bruschetta pasta salad is all about the little details that enhance flavor and presentation. Here are some handy tips to make your dish stand out:

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh basil will greatly enhance the flavors of your pasta salad. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also add vibrant colors to your dish.

• Cook pasta al dente: Make sure to cook your pasta just until it’s firm to the bite. This prevents it from becoming mushy once mixed with the dressing and other ingredients, maintaining a delightful texture.

• Let it marinate: Allowing your salad to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld beautifully. This simple step can elevate your dish from good to spectacular!

• Experiment with cheeses: While mini mozzarella balls are delightful, feel free to mix in other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different twist. Each cheese brings its unique creaminess and flavor profile.

• Customize with veggies: Don’t hesitate to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumber for added crunch and nutrition. A variety of textures makes every bite exciting!

How to Serve Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls

This bruschetta pasta salad is not just easy to make but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any gathering! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a picnic, presenting this dish beautifully will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Adding extra chopped basil on top just before serving will brighten up the dish and provide an aromatic touch.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzling balsamic reduction over the salad adds a sweet tang that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Parmesan shavings: For those who enjoy cheese, adding thin shavings of Parmesan can elevate this pasta salad with a rich, nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection make a great side, adding smoky flavors that pair well with the freshness of the pasta salad.
• Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese made with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with olive oil is a delicious companion that mirrors the flavors in your main dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and provides a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy pasta salad.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar and olive oil offers a refreshing contrast that balances out the richness of the mozzarella.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your delicious bruschetta pasta salad! Whether it’s for yourself or shared with loved ones, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Item: This salad can be kept for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed within the first two days for optimal freshness.
• Item: If you prefer a crunchy texture, consider storing the toasted breadcrumbs separately and adding them just before serving.

Freezing

• Item: We do not recommend freezing this pasta salad as it may alter the texture of the ingredients, especially the mozzarella and tomatoes.
• Item: For best results, prepare and enjoy fresh.

Reheating

• Item: This dish is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat.
• Item: If you prefer a warm pasta salad, you can gently warm individual servings in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but keep it light to maintain its fresh flavors.

FAQs

If you have some questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I use a different type of pasta for Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any small pasta shape you like. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

How long does Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls last in the fridge?

This salad will stay fresh in your refrigerator for about 3 days. For the best taste, try to eat it within 2 days!

Can I add other vegetables to my Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls?

Yes! This recipe is versatile. You can include veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls brings joy to your kitchen! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy vibrant flavors while keeping things simple and fresh. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or prepping meals for the week ahead, this salad is sure to impress. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you! Happy cooking!