Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a pasta salad that's light, flavorful, and perfect for warm-weather gatherings, this Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad will quickly become a favorite. It’s made with wholesome ingredients like fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and bocconcini cheese, all tossed in a zesty basil pesto dressing. Unlike traditional creamy pasta salads, this recipe is fresh and vibrant, making it a healthier option while still being incredibly satisfying. It's quick to prepare, and the leftovers hold up well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

• Bow tie pasta (farfalle)

• Spinach (or arugula)

• Cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes)

• Fresh basil

• Bocconcini cheese (or mozzarella, parmesan, or feta)

• Red onion (optional)

• Basil pesto

• Olive oil

• Lemon juice

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil the bow tie pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Once cooked, rinse the pasta under cold water and set aside.

2. Chop the veggies: While the pasta cooks, chop the spinach, onion, and basil. Slice the tomatoes.

3. Slice the cheese: Slice the bocconcini cheese balls in half.

4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice.

5. Mix everything together: In a large bowl, combine the pasta, vegetables, cheese, and dressing. Toss until everything is well coated, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cook time is around 10 minutes. Total time: 25 minutes.

Variations

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bow tie pasta.

• To make this dairy-free, omit the cheese and use a dairy-free pesto.

• You can swap spinach for arugula or another leafy green of your choice.

• Feel free to add other veggies like cucumbers, red bell peppers, or zucchini for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad can be enjoyed cold, and you may want to refresh it with a little extra drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon before serving.

FAQs

What are bow tie pastas called?

Bow tie pasta is known as farfalle in Italian. The name "farfalle" means "butterfly," which is why it is also referred to as bow tie pasta.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge. Just add a bit of olive oil or lemon juice before serving to refresh it.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute bocconcini with mozzarella, feta, or parmesan. Each cheese brings a slightly different flavor to the salad.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. However, if you're looking to make it vegan, just omit the cheese and use a dairy-free pesto.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs. You can also add chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based protein option.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, you can use store-bought pesto to save time. Just make sure to choose one that suits your taste, whether it's a traditional basil pesto or a variation like sun-dried tomato pesto.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad?

Feel free to get creative with vegetables! Cucumbers, red bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or olives all work well in this dish.

How can I make this salad more filling?

To make this salad heartier, add some protein like grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas. You can also add avocado for extra richness.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bow tie pasta to make this salad suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long can I store this pasta salad?

You can store this pasta salad in the fridge for up to 3 days. It makes great leftovers!

Conclusion

This Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad is the ultimate dish for summer gatherings, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week. It’s quick to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and can be customized to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side or a main dish, this pasta salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.