Name: Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/3 cup black olives, sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Short Description

Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a colorful and refreshing dish that combines tender pasta with crisp vegetables, savory cheeses, and a zesty dressing. This versatile salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light and satisfying meal. Whether served as a side or a main course, this dish is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and minimal cooking time make this salad perfect for busy schedules.
Customizable: Easily adaptable with different vegetables, proteins, and dressings to suit your taste.
Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for BBQs, picnics, or even meal prep for the week.
Deliciously Fresh: A mix of crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing create an irresistible flavor.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together.

Ingredients

bow tie pasta
cherry tomatoes
cucumber
red bell pepper
red onion
black olives
feta cheese
fresh parsley
olive oil
red wine vinegar
Dijon mustard
garlic
salt
black pepper

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Slice the black olives and finely chop the fresh parsley.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
Chill and Serve: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with additional parsley before serving.

Variations

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Different Cheese: Swap feta for mozzarella pearls or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Dressing Alternatives: Try a balsamic vinaigrette, Italian dressing, or a creamy ranch for variety.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for dietary restrictions.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for some heat.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best taste, give the salad a quick toss before serving, as the dressing may settle.
Avoid freezing as the texture of the vegetables and pasta may become mushy.

FAQs

How can I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Rinse the pasta under cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors blend together.

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Bow tie pasta holds up well in pasta salads, but you can also use rotini, penne, or fusilli.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this version is vegetarian. To make it vegan, omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, tuna, or chickpeas make great additions.

What other vegetables can I add?

Try adding bell peppers, avocado, shredded carrots, or blanched green beans for extra crunch and flavor.

How long can I store leftovers?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I use bottled dressing instead of homemade?

Yes, store-bought dressing works well if you’re short on time, but homemade dressing offers a fresher taste.

How can I make it more filling?

Adding proteins like chicken or beans and pairing it with crusty bread makes it a more substantial meal.

Is it better served cold or at room temperature?

It’s best served chilled, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature if preferred.

Conclusion

Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its fresh ingredients, tangy dressing, and versatility make it a favorite for gatherings and meal prep alike. Try this recipe for a refreshing, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

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