Description
A fresh, tangy bruschetta-inspired pasta salad bursting with ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and Parmesan, tossed in extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a Mediterranean flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- Pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- Balsamic Vinegar
- 1 whole garlic clove, minced
- Ripe Tomatoes, diced
- Red Onions, diced
- Fresh Basil, chopped
- Parmesan Cheese, shredded
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Lemon Juice (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the diced tomatoes, red onions, and chopped basil to the dressing, tossing to combine.
- Stir in the cooked and cooled pasta until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Fold in the shredded Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- If desired, drizzle a small amount of lemon juice for brightness and give a final gentle toss.
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter and garnish with extra basil leaves or cheese.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, substitute regular pasta with a gluten-free alternative. This salad can be prepared up to a day ahead; keep refrigerated and add a splash of olive oil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta Salad
- Method: Cold
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: bruschetta,pasta salad,Mediterranean,summer,easy,fresh