Colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad Recipe

why make this recipe

Colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is vibrant, easy to make, and great for gatherings. This salad not only looks appetizing with its array of colors but also offers a mix of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. Whether you are having a picnic, a barbecue, or simply want a light lunch, this salad is sure to be a hit.

how to make Colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 8 oz bow tie pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Enjoy as a side dish or main course.

how to serve Colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad

You can serve Colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad in a large bowl for family-style sharing or on individual plates for a more formal presentation. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed as a light meal on its own.

how to store Colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad

To store your pasta salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you notice the pasta absorbing the dressing, just add a little more olive oil and vinegar before serving.

tips to make Colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad

• For extra flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving.
• Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli for added crunch and nutrition.
• Use whole grain bow tie pasta for a healthier option.

variation

You can easily change this recipe by adding cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Additionally, swapping the feta cheese for goat cheese can give it a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. How long can I keep the pasta salad in the refrigerator?

You can keep Colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad in the fridge for up to 3 days.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, but bow tie pasta adds a nice touch to the salad.

3. Is this salad vegetarian?

Yes, this salad is vegetarian as it contains only vegetables, pasta, and cheese.