This Easy Bruschetta Pasta is a refreshing dish packed with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s light, bright, and perfect for summer!
Making it is super simple—just cook the pasta, toss in the toppings, and enjoy. I love how quick it is—my dinner is ready before the ice cream melts! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti for this recipe, but you can switch it out for any pasta you enjoy, like penne or fusilli. Whole wheat pasta is also a great option for added fiber!
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes are perfect since they add sweetness. If they’re out of season, use canned diced tomatoes—just drain them well before mixing.
Basil: Fresh basil really brightens the dish, but if you can’t find it, you can use parsley or even arugula for a different flavor. Just remember to chop them fresh!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a nice crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or simply skip them.
Parmesan: If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor. You can also use vegan Parmesan, which is usually made from nuts.
How Do I Toast the Panko Breadcrumbs to Get Them Crispy?
Toasting panko helps to enhance its flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir them frequently. As they heat up, they will start to turn golden brown.
- Keep a close eye on them; they can burn quickly! Once they’re golden and crispy, take them off the heat.
Let them cool slightly before topping your pasta. That crunch really adds to the dish!
Easy Bruschetta Pasta Recipe for Summer Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
For the Toppings:
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, plus extra leaves for garnish
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for cooking
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
For the Crunchy Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of preparation and cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a summer meal when you want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti (or your chosen pasta) and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. This will help later if the pasta needs loosening up!
2. Toast the Breadcrumbs:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs to the skillet and stir them frequently until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn! Once they’re toasted, remove from heat and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the quartered tomatoes, chopped red onion, minced garlic, chopped basil, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together gently until well mixed. The fresh ingredients will create a vibrant flavor!
4. Combine Pasta and Tomato Mixture:
Put your cooked pasta into a large bowl. Pour the tomato mixture over the pasta and start gently tossing everything together. If the pasta looks a little dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. It should be light and juicy!
5. Top It Off:
Once combined, sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the pasta. Add extra grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves on top for a beautiful presentation.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Bruschetta Pasta immediately at room temperature or slightly chilled. It makes for a delightful summer meal that’s sure to please. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Bruschetta Pasta Recipe
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can vary.
How Can I Make This Pasta Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Also, check that your pasta is egg-free, as some varieties contain eggs.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the tomato mixture and toast the breadcrumbs a few hours ahead. Just cook the pasta right before serving to keep it fresh. If you refrigerate it, the pasta may absorb moisture, so add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water when reheating.
What Should I Serve with Bruschetta Pasta?
This pasta is great on its own, but you can enhance the meal with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. For protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete dish.
