Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad – Clara quick dinners

Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad is a colorful and hearty side dish packed with tender pasta, vibrant vegetables, and bold Italian flavors. Tossed in a zesty dressing and sprinkled with cheese, this salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing side to any Italian-inspired meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad is quick to prepare, full of fresh ingredients, and incredibly versatile. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for any occasion, and it can easily be made ahead of time. The combination of tangy dressing, crisp veggies, and savory extras like olives and cheese makes every bite satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cucumber, diced
• Red onion, finely chopped
• Red bell pepper, diced
• Black olives, sliced
• Salami, diced
• Mozzarella pearls or cubes
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Italian dressing
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, black olives, salami, and mozzarella.
3. Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh basil before serving or refrigerate until ready to eat.

Servings and timing

This Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad serves about 8-10 people as a side dish.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use pepperoni or prosciutto instead of salami.
• Swap mozzarella for provolone or feta cheese.
• Add marinated artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
• Use a homemade Italian vinaigrette for a fresher taste.
• Make it vegetarian by omitting the salami.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This salad is best served cold, and no reheating is necessary. If it dries out, add a little more dressing and toss before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Italian bowtie pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better after the flavors have had time to meld. Just give it a quick toss before serving.

What pasta is best for this recipe?

Bowtie (farfalle) pasta works best because it holds up well and captures the dressing nicely.

How can I keep the pasta from getting soggy?

Cook it al dente and rinse under cold water immediately after cooking to stop it from overcooking.

What kind of Italian dressing should I use?

Both store-bought and homemade Italian dressings work well; choose one that’s tangy and flavorful.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add broccoli, zucchini, carrots, or any other favorites.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely, just use a gluten-free bowtie pasta.

How long can pasta salad sit out?

It can safely sit out for up to 2 hours; afterward, it should be refrigerated.

Can I add beans to this salad?

Yes, adding chickpeas or white beans would make it even heartier.

Is it necessary to rinse the pasta after cooking?

Yes, rinsing stops the cooking process and cools the pasta quickly for the salad.

What cheeses go well with Italian pasta salad?

Mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, and even a sprinkle of Asiago are all excellent choices.

Conclusion

Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad is a vibrant, easy-to-make dish that’s packed with fresh ingredients and irresistible flavors. Whether you need a quick side dish for a barbecue or a make-ahead option for your next gathering, this pasta salad is a reliable and delicious choice. Enjoy it fresh and customize it to your taste!

Print