Description
This Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a colorful, refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, packing a picnic, or just looking for a quick, light lunch, this pasta salad brings the flavors together in the most delicious way. With a combination of tender bow tie pasta, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside in a large mixing bowl.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and olives. Add them to the bowl with the pasta.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing everything together until well coated.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the top, and gently toss again.
- Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the dish a refreshing, cool taste.
Notes
This pasta salad is perfect for a make-ahead dish. Prepare it in advance and let it chill in the fridge for the best flavor. You can also make it more substantial by adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 180-220 kcal (approximate, depending on ingredient brands)
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200-250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg