This bow tie pasta salad is a colorful, healthy, and dependable choice for picnics, parties, and summer meals. Made with fresh vegetables, pesto, and creamy bocconcini, it delivers balanced flavor and texture in every bite.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Bow tie pasta salad is a popular choice for gatherings because it holds dressing well, looks vibrant on the table, and tastes great when served cold. This colorful bow tie pasta salad combines fresh produce, pesto, and cheese for a healthy option that works for picnic food ideas with pasta or party pasta salads for a crowd. Whether you need a pasta salad for a crowd or a simple lunch prep, this healthy bowtie pasta salad fits the occasion while staying light and satisfying.
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Bow Tie Pasta Salad – Colorful, Healthy, and Perfect for a Crowd
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A colorful bow tie pasta salad with pesto, fresh vegetables, and bocconcini cheese, perfect for picnics and parties.
Ingredients
12 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1 cup spinach
1/2 cup basil
1/4 cup red onion
1 cup bocconcini cheese
3 tbsp pesto
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 lemon, juiced
Salt
Black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook pasta until al dente and rinse with cold water.
2. Toss pasta with olive oil.
3. Add tomatoes, spinach, basil, onion, and cheese.
4. Mix pesto with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine dressing with salad and chill before serving.
Notes
Best served cold.
Add spinach just before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
| Category | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Produce | 1/2 cup fresh basil, 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 lemon (juiced), 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced), 1 cup spinach (packed) |
| Pasta & Grains | 12 oz bow tie pasta (dry) |
| Dairy | 1 cup bocconcini cheese |
| Condiments | 3 tbsp pesto |
| Oils & Seasoning | 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, black pepper |
Step-by-Step Instructions and Tips
Cook the bow tie pasta in well-salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Transfer pasta to a large bowl and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Add cherry tomatoes, red onion, spinach, basil, and bocconcini cheese. In a small bowl, mix pesto with lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, then pour over the salad. Toss gently until evenly coated. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend. For best results, add spinach just before serving if making far in advance.
Conclusion
This cold bow tie pasta salad recipe is colorful, fresh, and dependable for any occasion. It works well as a healthy side dish or light main and scales easily for parties and picnics.
FAQ
What makes bow tie pasta salad good for a crowd?
Its shape holds dressing well and stays firm when chilled, making it ideal for large batches.
Can bow tie pasta salad be made ahead?
Yes, prepare it up to one day ahead and refrigerate.
Is bow tie pasta salad healthy?
This version uses fresh vegetables, olive oil, and moderate cheese for balanced nutrition.
Can I serve bow tie pasta salad cold?
Yes, it is designed to be served cold and tastes better after chilling.