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Colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad with fresh vegetables and dressing

Bow Tie Pasta Salad

A vibrant and versatile Bow Tie Pasta Salad, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or quick dinners, bursting with fresh flavors and comforting textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 ounces bow tie pasta (farfalle) whole wheat or gluten-free work well
Vegetables
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved swap for sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced substitute zucchini for milder flavor
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced use roasted red peppers for sweetness
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced soak briefly in cold water to reduce bite
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chiffonade swap spinach with kale for a stronger flavor
Cheeses
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed fresh mozzarella feta adds a tangy twist
Olives
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced optional
Dressing
  • 3/4 cup Italian dressing store-bought or homemade
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil for homemade dressing
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar for homemade dressing
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for homemade dressing
  • 1 clove garlic, minced for homemade dressing
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano for homemade dressing
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste
Optional Protein
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, salami, or chickpeas for added protein

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook until al dente—typically 10 to 12 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking and cool it for the salad.
Preparing the Salad
  1. While the pasta cooks, prep your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, thinly slice the red onion, and tear or chop the basil.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, vegetables, mozzarella, and olives. Toss gently.
  3. Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  4. For best results, cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Great for meal prep—flavors deepen overnight. Store leftovers for up to 4 days.