Name: Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz orzo pasta, uncooked; 2 cups seeded and diced fresh tomatoes; 1/3 cup diced red onions; 1/2 tbsp garlic puree; 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil; 2 tbsp basil pesto; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/3 cup feta cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 90 reviews

If you are craving a refreshing and vibrant pasta salad that bursts with Mediterranean flavors, the Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe is your new go-to. This dish perfectly combines tender, tiny orzo pasta with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a garlicky, herbaceous dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, colorful, and loaded with fresh ingredients that make every bite sing. Whether you are planning a picnic, a potluck, or just a simple family meal, this Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe brings all the best tastes of bruschetta into a fun pasta salad format that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image shows a pile of small chopped red tomato pieces with visible juice and seeds, resting on a wooden cutting board with a clear grain texture that covers the whole background. At the bottom right corner, part of a white knife blade is visible, contrasting with the board. The scene is lit to highlight the fresh, moist texture of the tomatoes and the natural wood color of the board. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in flavor, texture, and appearance. Using fresh, quality produce along with rich feta and fragrant basil creates a balance that’s both delightful and nutritious.

12 oz orzo pasta: Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that’s perfect for soaking up all the delicious dressing and flavors.
2 cups seeded and diced fresh tomatoes: Juicy and ripe tomatoes bring sweetness and vibrant color to the salad.
1/3 cup diced red onions: Adds a subtle sharpness and crunch that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
1/2 tbsp garlic puree: Provides an intense garlic flavor without the raw bite, blending smoothly into the dressing.
2 tbsp basil pesto: Infuses deep, herby notes while adding a touch of creaminess.
3 tbsp olive oil: The olive oil brings a fruity richness that links all the flavors together perfectly.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the other ingredients, balancing sweetness and acidity.
1/2 tsp pepper: A little bit of heat to keep the salad interesting.
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil: Fresh basil leaves add lively herbal freshness and green pops of color.
1/3 cup feta cheese: Crumbled feta delivers creamy, salty punch notes that elevate the whole dish.

How to Make Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Orzo Pasta

Begin by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package’s instructions. Be sure not to overcook – you want it tender but still slightly firm to maintain texture in the salad. Once cooked, drain the orzo and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. This step is key for the perfect salad consistency.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, diced red onions, garlic puree, and basil pesto. These ingredients form the bright and aromatic base of your salad, packed with fresh flavors inspired by classic bruschetta toppings.

Step 3: Add Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper

Drizzle in the olive oil and sprinkle the salt and pepper over the tomato mixture. Stir these together gently but thoroughly to create a well-balanced dressing that highlights each ingredient’s flavor while tying them into a harmonious whole.

Step 4: Let the Flavors Marry

Allow the tomato mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. This little waiting time lets the tomatoes soften slightly and absorb the garlic and herb notes, enhancing the overall taste of your Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe.

Step 5: Combine the Orzo and Tomato Mixture

Add the cold, cooked orzo noodles into the bowl with the marinated tomato mixture. Stir everything together so each bite will deliver a perfect combination of pasta and flavorful veggies.

Step 6: Add Fresh Basil and Feta Cheese

Next, toss in the chopped fresh basil and stir again. Finally, fold in the crumbled feta cheese, which adds a creamy, salty contrast that lifts the salad to the next level. Your Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe is now ready to enjoy or chill until serving.

How to Serve Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe

A close-up view of a spoon full of orzo pasta salad with three main layers: the first layer consists of small oval-shaped orzo pasta that is light yellow with a slightly shiny texture; the second layer has small pieces of bright red tomatoes cut into cubes scattered evenly; the third layer shows chopped green herbs and small bits of white cheese crumbled lightly throughout the mix. The background is a white marbled texture with more of the orzo pasta salad visible, showing the same elements mixed together. The spoon is green and held by a woman's hand, lifting the salad up. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe look as inviting as it tastes, feel free to add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil leaves or a few whole basil sprigs on top. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or an extra crumble of feta cheese just before serving also adds a fresh finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad is incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a veggie burger. It also shines as a colorful side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks, adding brightness and freshness alongside smoky or hearty mains.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming party presentation, serve your Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe in hollowed-out tomatoes or mini bell peppers. It also works great spooned onto individual leaves of romaine or butter lettuce as refreshing handheld bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, but fresh basil and feta will remain vibrant and delicious if stored properly.

Freezing

Because this salad contains fresh tomatoes and feta, freezing is not recommended. Freezing can alter the texture of these fresh ingredients and diminish the bright flavors that make this dish so special.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warmer, remove it from the fridge and let it sit on the counter for 15-20 minutes rather than reheating. This method preserves the crunchy texture and fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta instead of orzo in this Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While orzo’s shape and size make it ideal for this salad, small pasta shapes like couscous, small shells, or ditalini also work well and will absorb the dressing nicely.

Is this Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe vegan?

Not as written, because of the feta cheese, but you can easily make it vegan by replacing feta with a plant-based cheese or omitting the cheese altogether. The salad is still flavorful and fresh.

How long can I prepare this Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe ahead of time?

It’s best prepared the same day or the day before serving to keep the fresh ingredients crisp. If making ahead, add fresh basil and feta just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes! Chopped cucumbers, roasted bell peppers, or Kalamata olives are excellent additions that complement the classic bruschetta flavors beautifully.

What kind of tomatoes work best in this recipe?

Ripe, firm tomatoes like Roma, vine-ripened, or cherry tomatoes work best. Make sure to seed and dice them to avoid excess moisture and keep the salad from becoming soggy.

Final Thoughts

This Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute delight to make and share. Its fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and burst of fabulous Mediterranean flavors make it a standout dish for all seasons. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a regular favorite at your table, impressing family and friends alike with every colorful, tasty bite.