Indulge your taste buds in a symphony of flavors with our Bowtie Pasta Salad recipe. This delightful dish seamlessly combines al dente bowtie pasta with a vibrant medley of cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, red onion, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese, all harmonized by a zesty balsamic vinaigrette.
This Italian-inspired creation is a quick, refreshing, and versatile addition to any mealtime repertoire. The simple yet elegant blend of fresh ingredients ensures a burst of freshness in every bite, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or as a vibrant side dish.
Elevate your dining experience with this easy-to-make Bowtie Pasta Salad that promises to leave a lasting impression.
How to Make Bowtie Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz (about 225g) bowtie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions to Make Bowtie Pasta Salad
- Boil the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients (see below).
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld together for at least 30 minutes.
Recipe Variations
- Mediterranean Twist: Add kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and diced bell peppers for a Mediterranean-inspired Bowtie Pasta Salad.
- Pesto Perfection: Swap the balsamic dressing for a basil pesto sauce for a vibrant and herby variation.
- Protein Boost: Toss in grilled shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, or chickpeas for added protein and substance.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Delight: Include sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts for a burst of intense flavor and a hint of nuttiness.
What To Serve With Bowtie Pasta Salad
- Grilled Chicken: Serve Bowtie Pasta Salad alongside grilled chicken breasts or thighs for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread complements the freshness of the salad, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
- Caprese Skewers: Elevate your spread with mini Caprese skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
- Lemon-Herb Shrimp: Grilled or sautéed lemon-herb shrimp pairs wonderfully with the pasta salad, adding a burst of citrusy flavor.
- Bruschetta: Serve Bowtie Pasta Salad with a side of classic tomato bruschetta for a delicious and well-balanced combination.
Conclusion
Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors in this Bowtie Pasta Salad. It’s not only a visually appealing dish but also a crowd-pleaser that suits various occasions. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option or a side dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Experiment with additional veggies or protein to make it your own, and savor the fresh and satisfying taste of this easy-to-make pasta salad.
More Amazing Recipes
- Sonoma Chicken Salad Recipe
- Chicken Salad Chick Jalapeno Holly Recipe
- Tucci Benucch chopped Salad
- La Madeleine Pasta Salad Recipe
Bowtie Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
For Pasta
- 8 oz (about 225g) bowtie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients (see below).
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld together for at least 30 minutes.
Welcome! My name is Emma and you are on my Internet Kitchen. Delicious food is the common love of every foodie person. This site is to share friendly and appetizing recipes. We believe for a better life, you should need better food. So, keep visiting for updated information and recipes.