This Easy Bruschetta Pasta is perfect for summer! With fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil, it brings bright flavors to your plate.
Who knew pasta could feel so fresh and fun? I like to serve it with a sprinkle of cheese on top. It’s a hit at picnics or just a cozy dinner at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used spaghetti because it works well with the sauce, but feel free to swap it with other types like penne or linguine. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option for those with dietary needs.
Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, cherry tomatoes are perfect for this dish. If they aren’t in season, look for grape tomatoes as a substitute, or use canned diced tomatoes for a quick fix!
Fresh Basil: Basil gives this dish its fresh flavor. If you can’t find fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but cut the amount to one-third since it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: I love the sharp taste of Parmesan. Grated Pecorino Romano is a great alternative if you want something with a bit more kick. Vegan cheese can work too!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs add a nice crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will do, but they may not be as crispy. You can also make your own by toasting some stale bread in the oven!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pasta to perfection is key for a great dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with plenty of salted water. This helps the pasta flavor.
- Once the water is boiling, add your pasta and stir to separate the noodles.
- Check the package for cooking time, but taste a minute or two earlier to catch it al dente (firm to the bite).
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce later.
With these tips, your pasta will turn out great every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Bruschetta Pasta Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus some whole leaves for garnish)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Bruschetta Pasta recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for summer evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before you drain it!
2. Make the Tomato Mixture:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a medium bowl and combine the quartered cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the mixture, then season it with salt and pepper. Mix everything gently and set it aside. Let the flavors blend while we work on the next step.
3. Toast the Breadcrumbs:
In a small skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir frequently until they turn golden and crispy, around 3 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning! Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
4. Combine Pasta and Bruschetta Topping:
After draining the pasta, return it to the pot or transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the tomato mixture, grated Parmesan cheese, and a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen things up. Toss everything gently to combine, and taste. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re looking for a little kick!
5. Serve:
Divide the pasta evenly among bowls. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs on top, add more Parmesan cheese if desired, and garnish with whole basil leaves for a beautiful touch.
6. Optional:
If you want an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a bit of extra olive oil or balsamic glaze over the dish just before serving. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant bruschetta pasta!
Perfect for those warm summer evenings, this pasta dish is bright, delicious, and super easy to make. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just check the cooking time on the package and adjust accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to keep it from drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute dried basil, using about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can work well, too!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or choose a plant-based alternative. You can also toast some breadcrumbs in olive oil for extra flavor without the cheese!
