Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad
A vibrant celebration of flavors and textures, this Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad combines tender pasta with fresh vegetables and a rich vinaigrette, making it perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Main Ingredients
- 12 oz Bow Tie Pasta For that perfect bite-sized shape.
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved Sweet bursts of flavor.
- 1 Cucumber, diced Crisp and refreshing.
- 1 cup Bell Peppers, chopped (red, yellow, or green) Adds a crunchy, sweet element.
- 1/4 cup Red Onion, finely chopped For a mild zing.
- 1/2 cup Fresh Basil, roughly chopped Fragrant and vibrant.
- 1 cup Feta Cheese, crumbled Creamy and tangy to elevate flavors.
Dressing
- 1/3 cup Olive Oil A rich base for flavor.
- 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Acidity to balance the dish.
- 1 tsp Dijon Mustard A hint of heat and depth.
- Salt and Pepper To taste.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the bow tie pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process, letting them cool down.
Mixing Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables and drizzle the dressing over the top. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the feta cheese on top and give it a final gentle mix (be careful not to break up the cheese too much!).
Notes
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enhance flavor by allowing the salad to sit for 30 minutes to an hour before serving. For a deeper flavor profile, cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness.