Description
This Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish featuring al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, mozzarella, and a tangy Italian dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Pasta Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mixing, Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Keywords: bow tie pasta salad, easy pasta salad, cold pasta salad, summer salad recipe, pasta salad with Italian dressing