Are you tired of the same old boring salads? Look no further! Today, we’re excited to share 20 refreshing bow tie pasta salad recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic combinations to bold and adventurous flavors, these salads are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and summery or hearty and comforting, our selection of bow tie pasta salads has got you covered. With a variety of ingredients and flavor profiles to choose from, you’re sure to find at least one recipe that becomes a new favorite.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into these 20 delicious and refreshing bow tie pasta salad recipes!
Greek Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives
A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this Greek-inspired dish combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with a tangy feta cheese and briny olives. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked pasta, olives, feta cheese, and parsley to the bowl; toss until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Veggie Bow Tie Pasta Salad
A refreshing and healthy pasta salad perfect for warm weather gatherings. This recipe combines the flavors of summer with tender bow tie pasta, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup olive oil and lemon juice dressing (see below)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, cucumber, and parsley.
3. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Lime Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Brighten up your day with this refreshing pasta salad featuring the creaminess of avocado and a burst of citrusy lime flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow tie pasta
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine avocado, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the avocado mixture.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad and toss gently.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (cooking pasta) + chilling time
Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A vibrant and flavorful summer salad that combines the classic Italian flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with the elegance of bow tie pasta and a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow tie pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic glaze (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss again to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: To make balsamic glaze, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar over low heat until reduced by half, stirring occasionally. Let cool before using.
Bacon Ranch Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this creamy, savory, and smoky recipe that combines the flavors of bacon, ranch dressing, and bow tie pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow tie pasta
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp. ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and ranch seasoning until smooth.
3. Add the crumbled bacon, cooked pasta, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a cold pasta salad that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or everyday meals.
Mediterranean Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with bow tie pasta, cherry tomatoes, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow tie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This vibrant salad combines the classic flavors of pesto and sun-dried tomatoes with bow tie pasta, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow tie pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Toss until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwest Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Black Beans
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of the Southwest with the comfort of pasta and black beans, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 can (15.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine black beans, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and cumin.
4. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the dressing.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Strawberry Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this refreshing combination of sweet strawberries and savory spinach on a bed of bow tie pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow tie pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This spicy and savory pasta salad combines the flavors of buffalo chicken with bow tie pasta, crispy celery, and a tangy ranch dressing. Perfect for game-day gatherings or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup diced celery
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and cilantro. Mix until well coated.
3. Add cooked pasta, celery, and blue cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss until combined.
4. Pour in ranch dressing and toss until the salad is well coated with the dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Bow Tie Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Asian-Inspired Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Combine the flavors of Asia with the comfort of a classic pasta salad! This recipe brings together the sweetness of sesame and soy, the crunch of toasted peanuts, and the brightness of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup toasted peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta, scallions, red bell peppers, and peanuts to the bowl. Toss until coated with the dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Bow Tie Pasta Salad
A creamy and nutritious pasta salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of steamed broccoli, melted cheddar cheese, and bow tie pasta in a simple and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Steam the broccoli florets until tender. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, olive oil, garlic, cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful pasta salad. A perfect combination of tangy lemon, savory garlic, and tender bow tie pasta, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add olive oil in a slow stream, whisking constantly.
4. Add cooked pasta and toss to combine.
5. Stir in chopped parsley.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Antipasto Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this Italian-inspired dish, packed with flavorful antipasto ingredients and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, pepperoni, green olives, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Taco Bow Tie Pasta Salad
A twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of bow tie pasta. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 cup cooked ground beef (or ground turkey/beef substitute)
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp taco seasoning
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Add diced bell peppers and tomatoes to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and lime juice.
5. Combine cooked pasta, meat mixture, and chopped cilantro in a large bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Bow Tie Pasta Salad
A flavorful and colorful salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this Roasted Red Pepper Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of roasted peppers, pasta, and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted peppers, garlic, olive oil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the roasted pepper mixture, feta cheese (if using), and apple cider vinegar.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chickpea and Cucumber Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for a summer gathering. The combination of chickpeas, cucumber, and bow tie pasta is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 cups diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the dressing.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creamy tang of goat cheese with the bright flavors of fresh herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine crumbled goat cheese, parsley, and basil.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (pasta cooking time)
Spicy Sriracha Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the spiciness of sriracha with the creaminess of Greek yogurt, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1/2 cup sriracha sauce
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce and Greek yogurt until smooth.
3. Add chopped cilantro, red bell pepper, and cucumber to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these refreshing bow tie pasta salad recipes! With 20 unique and flavorful options, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. From classic combinations like Greek Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives, to innovative twists like Spinach and Strawberry or Buffalo Chicken, there’s a recipe for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing summer side dish or a satisfying main course, these bow tie pasta salads are sure to hit the spot. Dive in and discover your new favorite recipe!
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