Go Back

Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls

A vibrant and fresh salad featuring al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and aromatic basil, perfect for quick dinners or festive gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the salad
  • 12 ounces short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle) cooks to al dente perfection and holds the dressing well
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved sweet and juicy for bursts of flavor
  • 1 pint mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained creamy, milky little clouds
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade aromatic and bright
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil fruit-forward and smooth
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar adds tangy balance
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced warms the palate with gentle heat
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano classic bruschetta herb
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins
  • sliced kalamata olives
  • diced cucumber
  • thinly sliced red onion
  • toasted pine nuts

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and rinse briefly under cold water to cool the pasta quickly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  3. Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and toss gently so every piece is lightly coated. If the salad seems dry, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water.
  4. Fold in the halved tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and most of the basil, saving a few leaves for garnish.
  5. Chill for 15–30 minutes to let the flavors marry, or serve immediately.

Notes

Storage: Prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended.