Introduction
This delightful pasta dish combines the fresh flavors of bruschetta with the comforting texture of soft pasta. The marriage of tomatoes, basil, and parmesan creates a vibrant medley, while the dressing elevates it to a new level. Perfect for a light meal or as a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Cups
Metric
▢ 500g/1 lb penne, ziti or other short pasta
▢ 2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt, for cooking pasta
BRUSCHETTA
▢ 1 kg / 2 lb tomatoes, chopped into 1.25cm / 1/2” pieces, keep all juices
▢ 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
▢ 3/4 cup tightly packed basil leaves, finely sliced
▢ 1/2 cup (tightly packed) finely shredded parmesan
DRESSING:
▢ 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
▢ 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
▢ 2 garlic cloves, minced
▢ 3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
▢ 1/4 tsp black pepper
OPTIONAL EXTRA FINISHES
▢ 1/4 cup pinenuts, toasted
▢ Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Instructions
SHORT DIRECTIONS
Cook pasta in salted water until extra soft, toss with 2/3 Dressing, cool. Toss tomato with remaining Dressing, leave 10 min. Pour off juices into pasta, toss. Add 1/2 tsp salt into tomato, toss. Add into pasta with basil, parmesan. Finish with balsamic glaze and pine nuts. Enjoy!
FULL DIRECTIONS
Dressing – Shake the ingredients in a jar (or whisk in a jug).
Soft cooked pasta – Bring a large pot of water to the boil with the 2 teaspoons of salt. Cook the pasta per the packet time plus 2 minutes, until the pasta is overcooked and soft. Drain in a colander, then return the pasta into the same pot.
Flavour the pasta – Give the dressing a good shake then pour 2/3 of it over the pasta. Stir. Set aside to cool for 15 minutes and let the pasta absorb the dressing flavour.
Bruschetta – Put chopped tomato and all watery juices into a bowl. Pour over remaining Dressing, gently toss. Set aside for 10 minutes or until the pasta is cool to let the flavours meld.
Finishing (the order matters!) – Pour the juices accumulated in the tomato bowl into the pasta then toss to disperse. Add the salt into the tomato, gently toss, then add the tomato into the pasta. Add the basil, parmesan, gently toss.
Serve – Pour into a big bowl and serve! If using extra finishes, drizzle with a swish of balsamic glaze and sprinkle with pine nuts. Eat!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Dressing Preparation
Shake all the dressing ingredients (extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper) in a jar or whisk together in a jug until well combined.
Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 teaspoons of cooking salt. Once boiling, add the penne (or your choice of short pasta) and cook according to the package instructions, plus an additional 2 minutes, until the pasta is overcooked and soft. Drain the pasta in a colander and return it to the pot.
Flavoring the Pasta
Pour 2/3 of the prepared dressing over the hot pasta and stir to combine. Set the pasta aside to cool for 15 minutes, allowing it to absorb the dressing flavor.
Preparing the Bruschetta
In a bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes along with all their juices. Pour the remaining dressing over the tomatoes and gently toss to ensure they are well coated. Set aside for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld as the pasta cools.
Finishing Touches
Once the pasta is cooled, pour the accumulated juices from the tomato bowl into the pasta and toss to combine thoroughly. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the tomatoes and gently toss again. Next, add the tomato mixture to the pasta and incorporate the finely sliced basil and shredded parmesan. Gently toss to combine all ingredients.
Serving the Dish
Transfer the pasta mixture to a large serving bowl. If desired, drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the top and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts (if using). Enjoy your delicious dish!
Notes
Note 1
Ensure that the basil leaves are tightly packed when measuring for optimal flavor.
Note 2
Make sure to keep all the juices from the chopped tomatoes for maximum flavor in the dish.
Note 3
Adjust the salt levels according to your taste preferences.
Note 4
Pine nuts are optional but add a delicious crunch and flavor to the dish.
Note 5
Cooking the pasta until it is overcooked results in a softer texture that absorbs flavors better.
Note 6
Balsamic glaze should be used sparingly, as its flavor can be quite potent.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 teaspoons of salt. Add the pasta and cook it for the time indicated on the packet, plus an additional 2 minutes for an extra soft texture. Drain the pasta in a colander and return it to the pot.
Making Dressing
Combine extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper in a jar. Shake well to mix the ingredients, or whisk in a jug until fully combined.
Flavoring Pasta
After cooking and draining the pasta, pour 2/3 of the prepared dressing over it. Stir to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the dressing, and let it cool for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Preparing Bruschetta
In a bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes with all their juices. Pour the remaining dressing over the tomatoes and gently toss. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Combining Ingredients
Once the pasta has cooled, pour the juices from the tomato mixture into the pasta. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the tomato mix, toss gently, and then add it to the pasta along with the finely sliced basil and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
Serving
Transfer the pasta mixture to a large serving bowl. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts before serving.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute penne or ziti with other short pasta types based on your preference.
How can I adjust the flavor of the dressing?
You can modify the dressing by adding more or less balsamic vinegar or olive oil, or by including additional herbs or spices.
What is the ideal way to store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative to make the dish vegan-friendly.
What variations can I add to the bruschetta topping?
Feel free to add toppings like diced bell peppers, olives, or even avocados for a twist on the traditional bruschetta.
Conclusion
This pasta dish combines the freshness of bruschetta with the hearty texture of soft pasta, creating a delightful meal that bursts with flavor. The vibrant tomatoes, aromatic basil, and rich dressing come together to form a refreshing and satisfying dish, perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main or a side, this recipe is sure to impress.
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