This easy bow tie pasta salad is colorful and fun! It mixes pasta with fresh veggies, cheese, and a tasty dressing to create a cheerful dish everyone loves.
I like to make this salad ahead of time for picnics or potlucks. It’s always a hit and keeps well in the fridge. And let’s be real, who can resist that cute bow tie shape? 🎀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bow Tie Pasta: Bow tie pasta (farfalle) adds a fun shape to the salad. You can substitute it with other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or fusilli for a different look and texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems bring sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, you can use halved grape tomatoes or even diced bell peppers for crunch and color.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: I love the creaminess of bocconcini. If you want a lower-fat option, try cottage cheese, or you can skip cheese altogether for a dairy-free salad.
Fresh Basil: This adds a lovely aromatic touch. If you don’t have fresh basil, try using a teaspoon of dried basil, but fresh is always best for flavor!
Pesto: You can use store-bought pesto for convenience, or make your own with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan. If you want something lighter, replace it with a simple vinaigrette.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking pasta just right is key to a great pasta salad. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy, so follow these tips:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Salt enhances the flavor.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions but check for doneness a minute or two early. You want it al dente—firm to the bite.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents stickiness.
Following these steps will ensure your pasta has the perfect texture for your salad! Enjoy mixing it all together!
Easy Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In under an hour, you’ll have a refreshing pasta salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the pasta aside to drain completely.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, chopped basil leaves, and finely diced red onion. A colorful mix already, isn’t it?
3. Mix the Dressing:
Pour in the pesto and olive oil. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. This will bring all those delicious flavors together!
4. Season to Taste:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Let’s give it a little stir again to make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Before serving, if you like, garnish with a few extra basil leaves!
6. Enjoy:
Your Easy Bow Tie Pasta Salad is ready! Serve it cold or at room temperature at your next gathering or as a lovely side dish. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular bow tie pasta with gluten-free pasta. Look for gluten-free farfalle options, which are widely available in stores. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times may vary.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
To make this pasta salad vegan, simply omit the fresh mozzarella balls or replace them with vegan cheese alternatives. You can also make your own dairy-free pesto or use a store-bought version that is labeled vegan. This will keep the flavors vibrant without any dairy!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the salad, you might want to add a splash of olive oil or additional pesto if it seems dry when serving leftovers.
