Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck? Look no further! This bowtie pasta salad recipe is bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking time and simple ingredients – perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a homemade meal without the fuss. This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bowtie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 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 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, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Combine Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Tips for the Best Bowtie Pasta Salad:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste. Opt for fresh, ripe vegetables and good quality olive oil.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
- Make it ahead: This pasta salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Customize it: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts. You can also substitute different cheeses, like mozzarella or provolone.
Variations:
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be delicious additions to this salad, turning it into a more substantial meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the feta cheese for a vegan-friendly option. Use a vegan feta alternative if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This bowtie pasta salad is a simple, delicious, and healthy addition to your recipe repertoire. It’s a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for a light lunch, or a delightful side dish at your next gathering. Enjoy!