Description
This Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish packed with fresh vegetables, a zesty dressing, and the perfect balance of textures. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a light meal, this easy-to-make pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers (any color), chopped
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, honey (if using), and Italian seasoning.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, black olives, and feta cheese.
- Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle with fresh basil, mix well, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Creamy Version: Mix in Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamy dressing.
- Vegan-Friendly: Skip the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Different Cheese: Swap feta for mozzarella pearls or Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Bow Tie Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Pasta Salad Mediterranean Pasta Salad Healthy Pasta Salad Potluck Side Dish