This Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of pasta, fresh veggies, and a tasty dressing. It’s perfect for picnics or as a side dish at dinner!
With its fun shape, this pasta salad is a hit with kids and adults alike. I love adding extra cheese on top—because who can resist cheese, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle): This unique shape adds a fun touch to the dish. If you can’t find bow tie pasta, any short pasta like fusilli or penne can work well too!
Cherry Tomatoes: They are sweet and juicy, perfect for this salad. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, substitute with grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini): These add a creamy texture. Bite-sized mozzarella balls are ideal, but if unavailable, try cubed fresh mozzarella or even shredded mozzarella as a last resort.
Red Onion: The sharpness of red onions balances the other flavors. However, if you prefer something milder, sweet onions or green onions can be used instead.
Basil: Fresh basil gives a lovely aroma and flavor. If you’re out of fresh basil, try using fresh spinach or arugula for a different but tasty twist. Dried basil is an option, but use less as it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Properly Cook the Pasta for Salad?
The right pasta cooking technique is crucial for the best pasta salad. Cooking until al dente means the pasta will have a slight bite, which prevents it from becoming mushy after mixing with other ingredients.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Test the pasta a minute or so before the suggested time. You want it al dente—cooked but with a firm texture.
- Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water immediately. This stops the cooking process and cools it down quickly, making it perfect for a salad.
How to Make Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bow Tie Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish, with most of that time just letting the salad get wonderfully cold and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the bow tie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water. This will stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set the pasta aside.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, take the cooled pasta and add in the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, finely chopped red onion, and chopped basil leaves. This will create a colorful and tasty mix.
3. Add the Dressing:
Pour in the pesto sauce and olive oil into the pasta mixture. With a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated and combined. It’s a beautiful sight!
4. Season to Taste:
Next, add salt and pepper to your salad according to your taste. If you want an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and toss gently to combine.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes so all those delicious flavors blend together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. You can serve this pasta salad cold or at room temperature. If you like, add a few more fresh basil leaves on top for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your tasty Bow Tie Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute bow tie pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta can have different cooking times and may require more careful monitoring to achieve an al dente texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Pesto Sauce?
If you don’t have pesto on hand, you can use a mixture of olive oil, fresh herbs (like basil or parsley), garlic, and a bit of grated Parmesan for a fresh taste. Alternatively, a store-bought vinaigrette would work well to add flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle. If the salad looks dry, add a splash of olive oil or a bit more pesto to refresh it.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives for added crunch and flavor. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the salad.
