Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious recipe for your next gathering or weeknight dinner? Look no further! This bow tie pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser, bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking that's both healthy and satisfying – a true champion among easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. This recipe is so simple, even beginner cooks will feel confident whipping it up, and the best part? It's even better the next day!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bow tie pasta
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (any color), diced
- 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
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie 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.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and halve the Kalamata olives. Chop the fresh parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Dress and Serve: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or chill for later – the flavors meld beautifully overnight!
Cooking Tips for the Best Pasta Salad:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the salad and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Use fresh vegetables: Fresh vegetables add the best flavor and texture to the salad.
- Make the dressing ahead of time: The flavors will meld better if the dressing is made a few hours before serving.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Variations:
- Italian Herbs: Substitute Italian seasoning for the oregano and garlic powder.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
- Different Cheese: Try using mozzarella, provolone, or goat cheese instead of feta.
- Add some crunch: Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds add a lovely crunch to the salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
This bow tie pasta salad is a fantastic option for healthy meals, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple yet delicious dinner. It’s one of those best recipes that’s easy to customize to your liking, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!