This fun bow tie pasta salad is colorful and full of flavor! With tasty veggies, tangy dressing, and delicious cheese, it’s perfect for a picnic or a quick lunch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bow Tie Pasta: Farfalle pasta gives this salad its fun shape. If you don’t have bow tie pasta, any short pasta like penne or fusilli will work just fine. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option if needed.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add color and flavor! If you prefer, you can swap for diced regular tomatoes, or even roasted red peppers for a different twist.
Mozzarella Balls: The little mozzarella balls are creamy and fun to eat! If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try substituting with cubed avocado or a vegan cheese alternative.
Basil: Fresh basil adds amazing aroma and flavor! If you can’t find it, dried basil will work too—just use less since it’s more concentrated in flavor.
Pesto: This is optional but adds a great taste! If you don’t have store-bought pesto, you can quickly make your own with basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil.
How Do I Prevent My Pasta from Sticking Together?
Preventing pasta from sticking is essential for a great salad. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Use a big pot and plenty of water—this helps pasta move freely.
- Salt your water; it enhances the flavor and also helps prevent sticking.
- Don’t skip rinsing the pasta after draining. This cools it down quickly and washes away excess starch!
- Shake off excess water and spread the pasta out on a tray if possible, letting it cool completely before mixing.
Following these steps will keep your pasta salad light and enjoyable! Happy cooking!
Easy Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons pesto sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This tasty pasta salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to chill. So, set aside about 45 minutes in total to make this refreshing dish!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the bow tie pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (just slightly firm). After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, chopped basil, and finely chopped red onion. This colorful combination adds great flavor and texture!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar (or lemon juice), pesto (if using), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make a flavorful dressing. Make sure everything is well combined!
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated in the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
5. Chill Out:
Give the salad a taste and adjust any seasonings if needed. It’s best to chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, garnish the salad with extra fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this fresh, colorful bowl of joy—perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch!
Feel free to experiment with other ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy your delicious Easy Bow Tie Pasta Salad!
FAQ About Easy Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you can’t find bow tie pasta, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini will work perfectly. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again, as it may need a little refreshment in flavor!
Can I Add Protein to This Salad?
Yes, definitely! This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just cook and add your protein of choice to make it more filling.
What Can I Substitute for Pesto?
If you don’t have pesto or prefer not to use it, you can skip it altogether or add a bit more olive oil and lemon juice for extra flavor. Alternatively, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs can enhance the salad as well!
