Zesty Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer Picnics

Culinary magic happens when bow tie pasta salad dances with vibrant ingredients on your plate.

Colorful vegetables and zesty dressing create a perfect summer companion for picnics and gatherings.

Crisp bell peppers and tender pasta intertwine like a delightful flavor symphony.

Mediterranean-inspired herbs add unexpected depth to this classic dish.

Each forkful promises a refreshing blend of textures and tastes.

Creamy yet light, this salad stands out from typical side offerings.

Prepare to fall in love with a recipe that makes every bite an adventure.

FAQs

• Is this pasta salad healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach, tomatoes, and bocconcini cheese, providing vitamins, minerals, and protein while being a light and refreshing meal option.

• Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and toss again before serving to redistribute the dressing.

• How can I add more protein to this pasta salad?

Try adding grilled chicken, canned tuna, chickpeas, or sliced salami to boost the protein content and make the salad more filling.

• What if I don't have pesto?

You can substitute pesto with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and a touch of Dijon mustard for a similar fresh flavor profile.

Bow Tie Pasta Salad Perfect For Every Picnic

• Quick and Simple Preparation: Whip up this pasta salad in just a few easy steps, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Bursting with Fresh Flavors: Enjoy a vibrant mix of cherry tomatoes, bocconcini cheese, and fresh basil that creates a delightful explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish that appeals to both kids and adults, this bow tie pasta salad adapts to any gathering or meal occasion.
• Nutritious and Colorful: Pack in healthy ingredients like spinach and fresh vegetables, transforming an ordinary pasta salad into a nutritious and visually appealing dish that's as good for you as it is delicious.

Bow Tie Pasta Salad Grocery List Essentials

• Bow Tie Pasta: A playful pasta shape that adds visual interest and captures the dressing perfectly.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh, sweet tomatoes that provide bright color and juicy bursts of flavor.
• Bocconcini Cheese: Small, soft mozzarella balls that add creamy texture and mild milky taste.
• Spinach: Fresh green leaves that contribute nutritional value and earthy freshness.

• Basil, Red Onion: Herbs and aromatics that enhance the overall flavor profile with their distinct and vibrant taste.

• Pesto, Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: A zesty and herbaceous dressing that brings all the ingredients together with tangy and rich notes.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the flavors of the pasta salad.

Quick Steps To Make Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil Bow Tie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

Add bow tie pasta and cook until perfectly al dente, following the package guidelines.

Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process.

Let the pasta cool completely at room temperature.

Step 2: Chop Fresh Ingredients

• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Red onion (thinly sliced)
• Bocconcini cheese (torn into bite-sized pieces)
• Fresh spinach leaves
• Basil leaves (roughly chopped)

Step 3: Create Zesty Dressing

• Vibrant green pesto
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice

Blend the ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Vegetables

Transfer the cooled pasta to a large serving bowl.

Add all the chopped vegetables and cheese.

Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture.

Step 5: Toss and Season

Gently toss all ingredients until every piece is beautifully coated with the dressing.

Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light meal.

Smart Pasta Salad Tips For Summery Results

• Boil pasta al dente to maintain a slight firmness, preventing mushiness when mixed with other ingredients.
• Refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes to let flavors meld and enhance overall taste profile.
• Add grilled chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or plant-based protein like chickpeas for extra nutrition.
• Add spinach just before serving to prevent wilting and maintain fresh, vibrant texture.
• Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes after dressing to allow herbs and pesto to fully infuse the pasta.

Fun Mix-Ins For Bow Tie Pasta Salad Fans

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace bow tie pasta with gluten-free pasta like quinoa or rice pasta, maintaining the same fresh ingredients and dressing.
• Vegan Adaptation: Swap bocconcini cheese with firm tofu cubes or vegan mozzarella, using plant-based pesto made from nuts and herbs.
• Mediterranean Style: Add kalamata olives, cucumber, and replace pesto with a light Greek vinaigrette using oregano and red wine vinegar.
• Protein Power: Incorporate grilled chicken, canned tuna, or chickpeas to transform the salad into a more substantial main course meal.

Bow Tie Pasta Salad Plating Ideas To Try

• Picnic Perfect Platter: Spread the bow tie pasta salad on a large wooden board, garnishing with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of fresh cracked pepper for a stunning presentation.
• Protein Power-Up: Add grilled chicken strips, crispy pancetta, or seared shrimp to transform this light salad into a satisfying main course that's packed with protein.
• Wine & Dine Companion: Pair this fresh pasta salad with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a chilled rosé, creating a delightful summer dining experience that feels effortlessly elegant.
• Mediterranean Mezze Style: Serve alongside hummus, olives, and crusty bread for a Mediterranean-inspired spread that encourages shared, relaxed dining with family and friends.

Storing Bow Tie Pasta Salad For Later Enjoyment

• Store the pasta salad in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, keeping ingredients fresh and crisp.
• Skip freezing this salad since bocconcini cheese and fresh vegetables will lose texture and become watery when thawed.
• Gently mix the salad before serving to redistribute dressing and revive flavors after refrigeration.
• Add a small splash of olive oil or fresh pesto when serving chilled leftovers to enhance moisture and taste.

Bow Tie Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.6 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Bow tie pasta salad blends fresh Mediterranean flavors with colorful vegetables and zesty dressing. Crisp herbs and tangy feta cheese create a refreshing meal you’ll crave all summer long.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) bow tie pasta, dry
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup bocconcini cheese, halved
• 1 cup spinach, packed, finely chopped

Supporting Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup basil, finely chopped

Dressing and Seasoning:

• 3 tablespoons pesto
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil pasta in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, ensuring a tender yet firm texture. Drain thoroughly and spread on a wide platter to cool rapidly.
2. Slice cherry tomatoes into halves, creating vibrant, juicy clusters. Finely dice red onion to distribute sharp, crisp flavor throughout the salad.
3. Gently tear fresh spinach leaves into bite-sized pieces. Chop basil leaves to release aromatic oils and enhance the overall herbaceous profile.
4. Combine cooled pasta with prepared vegetables, bocconcini cheese, creating a colorful Mediterranean-inspired medley.
5. Craft a zesty dressing by whisking pesto with extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice until smoothly emulsified.
6. Drizzle dressing over pasta mixture, using delicate folding motions to coat ingredients evenly without crushing delicate components.
7. Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting seasoning to personal taste preferences.
8. Chill for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together, or serve immediately for optimal freshness and texture.

Notes

• Achieve al dente pasta by cooking slightly firmer for better texture and preventing mushiness when mixed with other ingredients.
• Rinse pasta with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking, ensuring each piece remains separate.
• Customize the salad by swapping bocconcini with feta or goat cheese for different flavor profiles and dietary preferences.
• Make ahead and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, allowing flavors to meld together while maintaining fresh, crisp vegetable crunch.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 252 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 130 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg