This colorful bow tie pasta salad is not only easy to make but also a fun dish to share! With yummy veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and a drizzle of Italian dressing, it’s refreshing.
Gathering friends around this salad is a delight, especially when I get to add my favorite protein like chicken or chickpeas! It’s a dish that makes everyone happy. 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bow Tie Pasta: The star of this salad! If you’re out of bow tie pasta, you can use any other pasta shape you have on hand. Penne or fusilli are good alternatives that will hold the dressing well.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color to your salad. If they’re not in season, you can substitute with diced regular tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: I love using bocconcini for that creamy texture. You can swap them for cubed mozzarella or even feta cheese for a tangy twist.
Fresh Herbs: Basil adds a fresh taste, but you can use arugula or spinach if you’re a fan. Dried herbs are okay, too, just use less as they are more concentrated!
Italian Dressing: You can opt for homemade dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and your favorite herbs if you prefer a healthier option. It lets you control the flavors!
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking pasta right is key for a good salad texture. To get it just right, follow these steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (the salt enhances flavor).
- Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—this means the pasta should be firm to the bite.
- Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta from becoming mushy in the salad.
- Make sure to drain it well so the salad doesn’t get watery!
This method keeps your pasta salad light and refreshing. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy pasta salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare, with an additional 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. So, in total, it’s just under an hour from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches the perfect al dente texture, which means it should be firm yet tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Make sure to drain it well.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, chopped basil, red onion, and parsley. Give it a good mix to combine all the colorful ingredients!
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta salad. Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. This is the moment where all the flavors begin to blend!
4. Season to Taste:
Now, sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Give it a final toss to mix everything together.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once chilled, serve the salad cold or at room temperature, and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color!
Enjoy your delicious and easy bow tie pasta salad as a side dish or a refreshing main course!
FAQ – Easy Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bow tie pasta is the star of this salad, you can easily substitute it with other shapes like penne, shells, or fusilli. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle toss before serving again, as some of the dressing may have absorbed into the pasta.
Can I Add More Vegetables or Proteins?
Definitely! Feel free to add in additional veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives for more color and crunch. You can also toss in cooked chicken, chickpeas, or beans to make it a heartier meal!
How Long Should I Chill the Salad?
A chilling time of at least 30 minutes is recommended to let the flavors meld together. However, you can prepare it a few hours in advance if you want, just allow it to chill before serving!
