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why make this recipe
Ear-shaped Pasta Bruschetta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for any occasion. It combines the delightful texture of orecchiette pasta with sweet cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil. This simple salad can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for picnics, gatherings, or a cozy night at home. Plus, it’s packed with fresh ingredients, ensuring you enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite.
how to make Ear-shaped Pasta Bruschetta Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 lb orecchiette pasta
- 4 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil (thinly sliced or torn)
- 4-6 cloves garlic (grated into a paste)
- 2 lemons (zested + juiced)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil + more as needed
Directions:
- Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and place them in a bowl. Add the grated garlic, olive oil, and the juice from 2 lemons. If you want extra zing, add the zest from 1 lemon. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and mix well. Let this sit at room temperature while you cook the pasta.
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a heavy pinch of coarse salt. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook until al dente, following the instructions on the package. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the orecchiette with the marinated cherry tomatoes and all their juices. Toss to mix everything together and stir in the basil.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings to your liking with more lemon juice, olive oil, and sea salt. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes if you want. Enjoy your salad!
how to serve Ear-shaped Pasta Bruschetta Salad
This Ear-shaped Pasta Bruschetta Salad can be served as a main dish, side dish, or even as a light appetizer. It looks great on a colorful platter and can be garnished with extra basil or lemon wedges for a nice touch. You can serve it warm right after preparing, or keep it in the refrigerator and serve it chilled for a refreshing treat.
how to store Ear-shaped Pasta Bruschetta Salad
To store this salad, place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 2-3 days. Just give it a gentle toss before serving again, as the ingredients might settle.
tips to make Ear-shaped Pasta Bruschetta Salad
- Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh basil make a big difference.
- Adjust the garlic according to your taste. If you love garlic, add more.
- For added texture, consider sprinkling some toasted pine nuts or feta cheese on top before serving.
variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding other vegetables such as cucumbers or bell peppers. If you want some protein, grilled chicken or chickpeas could make a great addition.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes if you prefer. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions.Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad stores well in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep.What should I do if I don’t have fresh basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but the flavor will be different. Use about a teaspoon of dried basil instead.
Ear-shaped Pasta Bruschetta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and place them in a bowl. Add the grated garlic, olive oil, and the juice from 2 lemons. Optionally, add the zest from 1 lemon. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and mix well. Let this sit at room temperature while you cook the pasta.
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a heavy pinch of coarse salt. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the orecchiette with the marinated cherry tomatoes and all their juices. Toss to mix everything together and stir in the basil.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings with more lemon juice, olive oil, and sea salt to your liking. For heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes if desired.
