Tomato Bruschetta Ziti Salad
Transform your pasta salad game with this vibrant Tomato Bruschetta Ziti Salad, a refreshing twist that marries the bold, rustic flavors of classic bruschetta with tender ziti pasta. Featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella pearls, this dish is elevated by a zesty homemade dressing of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic. Tossed together with parmesan cheese for a savory finish, this chilled pasta salad is the perfect side dish or light main course, ready in just 25 minutes. Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or a breezy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers a satisfying burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 0.3333 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves
- 0.5 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the bruschetta topping. Halve the cherry tomatoes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Chop the fresh basil leaves finely and add them to the bowl with the tomatoes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic (use a garlic press or finely mince the cloves), salt, and black pepper. Pour this dressing over the tomato and basil mixture, then gently toss to combine.
Add the cooled ziti pasta to the tomato bruschetta mixture and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the dressing.
Fold in the mozzarella pearls and grated parmesan cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve cold or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2759 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 138.2 g | 177% | |
| Saturated Fat | 45.1 g | 226% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 172 mg | 57% | |
| Sodium | 3984 mg | 173% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 288.5 g | 105% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.0 g | 82% | |
| Total Sugars | 35.6 g | ||
| Protein | 105.0 g | 210% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1452 mg | 112% | |
| Iron | 14.8 mg | 82% | |
| Potassium | 1086 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
