Colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad Delight
This vibrant Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of fresh vegetables and creamy bocconcini, perfect for any summer gathering. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and textures that will transport you to sunny days.
- Author: Clara
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- 12 ounces (4 cups) bow tie pasta, dry
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup bocconcini cheese, halved
- 1 cup spinach, packed, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup basil, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Be sure to salt the water well. Cook the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions (typically 8-10 minutes) or until slightly over al dente. It should be firm but not hard.
- After cooking, drain the pasta and place it in a large bowl. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and mix well to prevent sticking. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature, which should take about 5-10 minutes.
- While the pasta cools, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl or jar, mix the pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice. Whisk everything together until you have a homogeneous mixture.
- Once the pasta has cooled, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, halved bocconcini, finely chopped spinach, and basil to the large bowl with the pasta. Gently stir to combine everything well.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix everything gently until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- The salad can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s ideal to give it a quick stir before serving to ensure the flavors are well distributed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy. Use fresh herbs for better flavor, and feel free to customize with additional ingredients like grilled zucchini or bell peppers.