This cheerful bow tie pasta salad is perfect for any gathering! With colorful veggies and a light dressing, it’s fresh and fun to eat. It’s like a party on your plate!
I love how quick this salad is to whip up. Just cook the pasta, toss in your favorite veggies, and drizzle with dressing—simple and tasty! Great for picnics or lunchboxes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bow Tie Pasta: The star of the dish! You can easily swap bow tie (farfalle) with any pasta shape you like. Consider using rotini or penne for a twist. Gluten-free pasta also works well!
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness adds a pop of flavor. If you can’t find them, use diced bell peppers or even canned diced tomatoes for a different twist.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: These little cheese bites are tasty and creamy. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using marinated tofu or omit it entirely!
Red Onion: This adds a nice crunch. If red onion is too strong for you, consider using green onions or sweet onions for a milder flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley lend fresh flavor. You can mix it up with other herbs such as cilantro or dill if that fits your taste!
How Do You Properly Cook Bow Tie Pasta?
Cooking bow tie pasta correctly is key to a great salad. Follow these steps for perfect pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to season the pasta while cooking.
- Add the bow tie pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness a minute before the package time. It should be al dente, tender but still with a firm bite.
- Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This cools it down and stops the cooking, keeping it from getting mushy.
Following these steps helps ensure your pasta salad has the perfect texture!
Easy Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz (about 4 cups) bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice or white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. If you let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes, the flavors will have time to blend beautifully. So, all together, you’re looking at around 45 minutes if you include the chilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. That means it should still have a little bite to it! Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Drain it well so there’s no excess water.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked bow tie pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, finely chopped red onion, chopped basil, and parsley. This colorful mix is what makes the salad so delightful!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, pesto sauce, lemon juice (or vinegar), dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This will create a tasty dressing that will bring all the flavors together.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently to make sure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Now’s the time to give your salad a little taste! Feel free to adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preferences.
6. Garnish and Chill:
Before serving, garnish your salad with extra fresh basil leaves for a lovely touch. It’s best to chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
After chilling, your salad is ready to serve! Enjoy this fresh, colorful, and easy bow tie pasta salad at potlucks, picnics, or as a light lunch!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bow tie pasta (farfalle) is the star here, you can substitute it with other shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta type you choose!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it seems dry when you go to eat it, just add a little more olive oil or lemon juice to refresh it!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad is wonderful for meal prep. Make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop and it will be even tastier!
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
If you’d like to add more protein to your pasta salad, consider including grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. These options will make the salad heartier and even more satisfying!
