Bruschetta Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 ozthin spaghetti
not the whole box!
- 2 ccherry tomatoes
very finely diced, see note 1
- 1 tbspminced garlic
- ¼ colive oil
plus more for topping
- 1 tbspbalsamic vinegar
- ½ cfreshly grated parmesan cheese
plus more for topping, see note 2
- ½ cfresh basil leaves
cut into small ribbons
- salt and pepper
- 1 tbspunsalted butter
- ⅛ tspgarlic powder
- ⅓ cpanko breadcrumbs
Directions
- 1
Bring 10 cups water to a roiling boil in a large pot. Once boiling, add 1 tbsp salt and 8 ounces pasta. Don't use the whole package!
- 2
In a large bowl combine finely diced tomatoes, garlic, oil, balsamic vinegar, and Parmesan. Season to taste (I add 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper). Toss well to combine.
- 3
Heat butter in a small frying pan over medium heat until melted. Add Panko, a large pinch of salt and garlic powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the breadcrumbs are light golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Remove pan from heat and transfer breadcrumbs to a bowl or plate.
- 4
When the pasta has finished cooking according to package directions, use tongs to lift the pasta straight from the pot into the large bowl. Shake off excess water as you lift.
- 5
Toss everything together in the bowl with tongs until nicely thickened and cheese is melted. Toss through the basil. Taste and season to taste if needed.
- 6
Divide onto plates, then top each with extra basil, a generous drizzle of olive oil, more Parmesan, and black pepper if desired. Finish with an even sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs.
Bruschetta Pasta
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 6 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving the vibrant taste of fresh bruschetta but looking for a satisfying dinner? This Bruschetta Pasta transforms that beloved appetizer into an easy, flavor-packed meal, perfect for any weeknight.
This recipe works by harnessing the power of simple, high-quality ingredients, allowing their natural flavors to shine. The freshness of finely diced cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and bright basil perfectly complements the tender thin spaghetti, creating a harmonious dish that feels both comforting and light. The unique addition of crispy panko breadcrumbs adds a delightful textural contrast that elevates every bite.
Expect a dish that's bursting with the taste of summer, even if you're making it in colder months. Each forkful delivers a fresh, savory, and slightly tangy experience, thanks to the balsamic vinegar, while the Parmesan cheese adds a rich, salty depth. The delicate thin spaghetti ensures the pasta doesn't overpower the fresh tomato mixture, and the toasted panko provides a lovely crunch. At just 283 calories per serving, it’s a wonderful option for a lighter dinner.
Customization & Variations
While thin spaghetti is specified, you can easily swap it for angel hair or even a small, short pasta like penne if that's what you have on hand. If fresh basil is hard to find, a mix of dried oregano and parsley can offer a different aromatic profile. For an extra pop of flavor, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes could be added to the tomato mixture.
This Bruschetta Pasta is ideal for a casual dinner, a relaxed get-together, or when you simply want something fresh and flavorful after a long day. Serve it as a stand-alone main course, perhaps with a simple green salad on the side to complete the meal.