This Easy Bruschetta Pasta is perfect for summer! It’s made with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic mixed into pasta for a light and tasty dish. You’ll love the colorful presentation!
Making this pasta feels like a breeze. I always add some extra basil on top for fun. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those ripe tomatoes sitting on your counter!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: This recipe calls for spaghetti, but feel free to use any pasta you like! Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta work well. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes are essential. If you can’t find fresh tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes can be a convenient substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that fresh taste. If you lack fresh basil, consider using dried basil, but use it sparingly since it’s more potent. Or, try other herbs like parsley or oregano.
Parmesan Cheese: While freshly grated Parmesan adds richness, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can be a good dairy-free alternative. Just remember to adjust salt accordingly!
Panko Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work fine, but panko gives a nicer crunch. You can also skip them for a lighter dish.
What’s the Best Way to Toss Pasta with a Sauce?
Tossing pasta with sauce can be tricky, but it helps ensure every noodle is coated well. Here are a few tips to get it right:
- Start by mixing the pasta with the sauce in a large bowl, using a gentle lifting motion. This prevents breaking the pasta.
- If the mixture seems dry, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time. It helps the sauce cling better.
- Don’t forget to add any cheese or breadcrumbs after mixing. This way, you keep the texture intact.
- Lastly, serve it immediately! Pasta is best when fresh and hot.
With these tips, your Easy Bruschetta Pasta will not only look beautiful but taste amazing too!
Easy Bruschetta Pasta Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- 4-5 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for toasting breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and can be served immediately, making it a quick option for a warm summer meal. With fresh ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this pasta in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it is al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later.
2. Prepare the Bruschetta Topping:
While the pasta cooks, take a medium-sized bowl and combine your diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped red onion, and fresh basil. Drizzle in the olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Stir everything gently to mix, and let it sit to meld the flavors while you prepare the breadcrumb topping.
3. Make the Toasted Breadcrumbs:
In a small skillet over medium heat, add about a tablespoon of olive oil. When it’s warm, add the panko breadcrumbs. Toast them, stirring frequently for about 3-5 minutes, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once they’re done, take them off the heat and set aside.
4. Combine Pasta and Topping:
Now, put the drained pasta into a large mixing bowl. Pour the tomato and basil mixture over the pasta and mix gently to combine everything. If it seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help everything stick together.
5. Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with half of the toasted breadcrumbs. Toss everything together gently to make sure the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve:
Transfer your bruschetta pasta to serving bowls. Sprinkle the remaining toasted breadcrumbs on top, add some extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves for garnish. If you like a bit of heat, you can also sprinkle on some red pepper flakes!
7. Enjoy:
Serve the pasta immediately. This fresh, vibrant dish is a perfect way to enjoy summer flavors, bringing together the classic taste of bruschetta with the comfort of pasta!
Bon appétit! Enjoy every delightful bite!
FAQ for Easy Bruschetta Pasta Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is recommended, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just keep an eye on the cooking times as they may vary.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bruschetta pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water and warm it gently on the stovetop to maintain its flavor and texture.
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Tomatoes?
No worries! If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a substitute. Drain them well to avoid excess moisture and enhance the flavor with some dried Italian herbs!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also try a dairy-free cheese alternative for a similar taste!
Feel free to reach out with more questions as you prepare this summery dish!
