Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck? Look no further! This Barilla bowtie pasta salad recipe is bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is one of the best recipes for a reason—it's simple, adaptable, and incredibly satisfying. Consider it your new go-to for quick dinner ideas!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Barilla bowtie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Barilla bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
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Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and halve the Kalamata olives. Chop the fresh parsley.
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Combine everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best results! Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality olive oil.
- If you don't have Kalamata olives, you can substitute with your favorite olives.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to your pasta salad.
- To make this a complete meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Variations:
- Spicy Pasta Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a kick.
- Mediterranean Pasta Salad: Add artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh oregano.
- Creamy Pasta Salad: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
This Barilla bowtie pasta salad is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your liking, making it a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire of easy recipes. Enjoy this tasty and easy-to-make food recipe!