If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any gathering, then this Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that brings people together, filled with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mini mozzarella balls. I love how it captures the essence of bruschetta in a fun pasta salad format. This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or those sunny family barbecues!

Whether you’re planning a dinner party or packing lunch for the week ahead, this pasta salad is a winner. It combines fresh ingredients with the delightful crunch of homemade sourdough breadcrumbs that elevate every bite. Trust me, once you serve this dish, it will quickly become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: In just over 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful salad, making it ideal for those hectic days.
Fresh Flavors: The combination of cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a burst of flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the creamy mini mozzarella balls and colorful veggies, making it perfect for all ages.
Make-Ahead Option: This salad tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a bit, so it’s great for meal prep!
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it’s sure to impress at any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls! You probably have many of these items already in your pantry or fridge.

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 cider 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)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition.
Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, try using feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
Boost the Protein: Add cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken pieces to make it more filling.
Change the Pasta Shape: Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta shapes to suit your dietary needs while keeping it delicious.

How to Make Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Add your small pasta shape and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well afterward. Cooking it just right ensures that it holds its shape and texture in the salad!

Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients

While your pasta cooks, prepare the rest of your ingredients. In a large salad bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped shallot, halved bocconcini, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, chopped basil, and salt + pepper. Toss everything together gently and let it sit—this allows all those lovely flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Make Homemade Breadcrumbs

For that crunchy topping that makes this salad special, toast your slices of sourdough bread until golden brown. Tear them into smaller pieces and pulse in a food processor until you get crumbs of various sizes for added texture. Next, heat 1.5 tsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add those breadcrumbs along with garlic powder if using. Stir them often until they are crispy and golden—this step adds an amazing crunch!

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Once your pasta has cooled slightly after draining, add it along with the homemade breadcrumbs into the bowl with your salad mixture. Toss everything gently to combine while checking seasoning—add more salt + pepper if desired. And there you have it! Your Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls

Creating a delicious bruschetta pasta salad is all about those little touches that elevate the flavor and texture! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish is a hit:

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes and vibrant basil can make all the difference in flavor. They enhance the overall taste and give your salad that authentic Italian touch.
Cook pasta al dente: By cooking your pasta just until it’s al dente, you prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients. This helps maintain a delightful texture throughout your salad.
Let it marinate: After mixing all the ingredients, allow your salad to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Experiment with cheeses: While mini mozzarella balls are fantastic, feel free to try other cheese options like feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. It can add an exciting twist to your salad!
Adjust seasoning according to taste: Tasting as you go is key! Adjust salt and pepper based on your preference, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.

How to Serve Bruschetta Pasta Salad With Mini Mozzarella Balls

This delightful bruschetta pasta salad not only tastes amazing but also looks gorgeous when served! Here are some ideas to present this beautiful dish:

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves: A few whole basil leaves scattered on top add a pop of color and reinforce that wonderful basil flavor.
Shaved Parmesan or nutritional yeast: For those who enjoy an extra cheesy element, sprinkle some shaved Parmesan or nutritional yeast over the top just before serving.

Side Dishes

Grilled Vegetable Platter: A medley of seasonal vegetables grilled until tender brings out their natural sweetness. The smoky flavors complement the freshness of the pasta salad perfectly.
Hummus and Pita Bread: Creamy hummus served with warm pita bread creates a satisfying pairing. The dip adds a nice contrast in texture to the crunchy elements of your salad.
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze on skewers make for an elegant side dish that mirrors the flavors in your pasta salad.
Crispy Green Salad: A simple green salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpart to the richness of the bruschetta pasta salad.

With these suggestions, you’re well on your way to serving up an unforgettable meal that will delight family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bruschetta Pasta Salad with Mini Mozzarella Balls is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Use within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
If the salad seems a bit dry after sitting, feel free to drizzle a little olive oil or vinegar before serving.

Freezing

This pasta salad is not recommended for freezing due to the texture changes in the tomatoes and mozzarella. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Reheating

Since this salad is served cold, there’s no need to reheat. Just take it out of the fridge and enjoy as is!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mini mozzarella balls in my Bruschetta Pasta Salad with Mini Mozzarella Balls?

Absolutely! You can substitute with feta cheese or any soft cheese that you enjoy. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor profile.

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

It generally lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Enjoy it within that timeframe for optimal taste!

What can I add to my Bruschetta Pasta Salad for extra flavor?

Feel free to toss in some olives, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts for added depth and flavor!

Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?

Yes! This pasta salad travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser at potlucks or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Bruschetta Pasta Salad with Mini Mozzarella Balls as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner party. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your creations with friends — they’ll love it too! Happy cooking!