Go Back
Pasta salads have long been celebrated as a versatile dish, perfect for a myriad of occasions—from casual picnics to elegant dinner parties. Their adaptability allows for endless combinations of ingredients, making them a favorite among home cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike. The Bow Tie Bliss Pasta Salad stands out in this category, not only for its delightful shape but also for its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors. This recipe is an excellent choice for gatherings, meal prep, or simply as a light, nutritious meal.

Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Discover the joy of Bow Tie Bliss Pasta Salad, a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. This salad features delightful bow tie pasta mixed with a medley of fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing that comes together beautifully. Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Elevate your dining experience with this colorful and nutritious salad.

Ingredients
  

8 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup bell pepper (any color), diced

½ cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup black olives, sliced

½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

½ cup olive oil

¼ cup red wine vinegar

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together vigorously until the dressing is emulsified and well-blended. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as desired.

      Chop the Vegetables: As the pasta cools, prepare the fresh vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, and chopped fresh parsley. Stir the vegetables together to combine them evenly.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the prepared vegetables. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, then gently toss everything together with a spatula or large spoon until every ingredient is well coated in the dressing.

          Add Feta: Carefully sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. Using gentle folding motions, incorporate the feta into the salad without breaking the cheese too much.

            Chill the Salad: Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

              Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, give the pasta salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve this vibrant salad chilled at picnics, barbecues, or as a delightful light meal!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 4-6

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta salad in a large, colorful bowl, garnishing with a few sprigs of parsley on top for a fresh touch. You can also add additional crumbled feta for extra flavor and aesthetic appeal.