Bow Tie Pasta Salad

A Colorful, Fresh, and Easy Pasta Salad Perfect for Any Occasion

This Bow Tie Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that disappears quickly at barbecues, picnics, and potlucks. Made with farfalle pasta (a.k.a. bow tie), crisp vegetables, and a flavorful homemade dressing, this salad is vibrant, satisfying, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a light meal, it’s refreshing, hearty, and crowd-pleasing.

The great thing about pasta salad is that it’s endlessly customizable—add cheese, meat, or your favorite herbs to make it your own. It also holds up well in the fridge, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy weeks or summer events.

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Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Salad:

• 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup yellow bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup black olives, sliced
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped

For the Dressing:

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for extra brightness)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prep the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, chop all your vegetables and set them aside.

3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice if using.

4. Toss Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, vegetables, olives, feta cheese (if using), and herbs. Pour the dressing over the top and toss well to coat everything evenly.

5. Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 380mg

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Tips & Tricks

• Rinse the pasta: This stops the cooking process and prevents clumping.
• Add protein: Mix in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or salami for a heartier salad.
• Use fresh herbs: Basil or parsley adds a burst of freshness. Dill also works great.
• Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
• Swap the dressing: You can use Italian dressing or balsamic vinaigrette if you prefer.

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A Little Something from Me 🥗

This Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a go-to in my kitchen when the weather warms up. It’s so simple, yet so satisfying. The bow tie pasta holds the dressing beautifully and gives the salad a fun, festive look that feels a little fancier than your average macaroni salad.

I especially love how versatile it is—you can make it vegetarian, add spicy elements, or even turn it into a creamy version with mayo or Greek yogurt. It’s one of those “whatever’s in the fridge” kind of dishes that somehow always ends up delicious.

Serve it alongside grilled meats, bring it to your next picnic, or meal-prep it for easy weekday lunches!