Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a delightful and colorful dish that brings together the goodness of fresh vegetables and pasta. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simple family gatherings. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also refreshing and satisfying, making it a favorite for many.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
This recipe stands out for its vibrant flavors and textures. Using bow tie pasta adds a fun twist to the salad, and the mix of vegetables provides both crunch and freshness. It is a simple way to enjoy a balanced meal, packed with nutrients. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy days.
How to make Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumbers, diced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or a light main course.
Bow Tie Pasta Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad made with bow tie pasta and fresh vegetables, perfect for gatherings or as a light meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumbers, diced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve chilled as a side dish or light main course. Customize with your favorite vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
How to serve Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Serve Bow Tie Pasta Salad chilled, either as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light main course. It pairs well with a variety of proteins, such as chicken or shrimp. Garnish with extra feta cheese or fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for added flavor and color.
How to store Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Store any leftover Bow Tie Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, add a splash of olive oil or vinegar to refresh it before serving.
Tips to make Bow Tie Pasta Salad
- Make sure to rinse the pasta in cold water after cooking it. This helps to stop the cooking process and keeps the pasta from becoming mushy.
- Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite veggies, such as carrots or spinach.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, canned tuna, or chickpeas.
Variations
You can easily turn this salad into a Mediterranean feast by adding sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or even some capers. For a vegetarian option, leave out the feta cheese and replace it with avocado for creaminess.
FAQs
1. Can I make Bow Tie Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
2. Is Bow Tie Pasta Salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of traditional bow tie pasta.
3. Can I add meat to my pasta salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salami can be great additions to make the salad more filling.
Conclusion
Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a simple and versatile dish that can brighten up any table. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it offers a tasty and healthy option for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a side or a main dish, this salad is sure to be a hit!
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