best bow tie pasta salad

The bow tie pasta salad is a classic dish that's been around for decades and continues to be a favorite among pasta lovers. It's a delicious combination of bow tie pasta, vegetables, cheese, and a variety of dressings that can be tailored to your taste. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy side dish or a hearty main course, this bow tie pasta salad is sure to please.

Ingredients

1 lb bow tie pasta
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup feta cheese crumbles
1/2 cup Italian dressing
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions.
Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese crumbles, Italian dressing, olive oil, basil, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is combined.
Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the bowl and mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Serve the bow tie pasta salad immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

This bow tie pasta salad is a great dish to serve as a side to grilled chicken or fish. It is also delicious served as a main course with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad. You can also use this recipe as a topping for a tossed salad or as a filling for a wrap or sandwich.

Variations

This bow tie pasta salad is very versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes. You can add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or corn. You can also add different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella. For a more flavorful dish, try adding diced red onion, roasted red peppers, or olives. For a more nutritious dish, add cooked chicken or shrimp.

Tips and Tricks

For best results, use a high quality Italian dressing.
To keep the salad from becoming soggy, add the dressing right before serving.
This salad can be served hot or cold.
For a creamier version, add a dollop of mayonnaise.
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does bow tie pasta salad last?

Leftover bow tie pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can bow tie pasta salad be frozen?

No, bow tie pasta salad should not be frozen as it will become soggy and lose its flavor.

What other vegetables can be added to bow tie pasta salad?

You can add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or corn. You can also add different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella. For a more flavorful dish, try adding diced red onion, roasted red peppers, or olives. For a more nutritious dish, add cooked chicken or shrimp.

Do I need to boil the pasta before making the salad?

Yes, you need to boil the pasta before making the salad. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions.