Bowtie pasta salad is a classic dish that is easy to make and is sure to please any crowd. This delicious and colorful salad is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks. It's also an excellent way to get more vegetables into your diet. With its robust flavors and crunchy texture, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
This bowtie pasta salad requires just a few simple ingredients, most of which you likely have on hand. You'll need one pound of bowtie pasta, one cup of diced celery, one cup of diced carrots, one cup of chopped red bell pepper, one cup of diced red onion, one cup of frozen corn, one cup of diced cucumber, one cup of crumbled feta cheese, one cup of diced tomatoes, two cloves of garlic, one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of dried basil, one teaspoon of ground black pepper, one teaspoon of sea salt, and one-quarter cup of olive oil.
Instructions
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the bowtie pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Next, in a large bowl, combine the diced celery, carrots, bell pepper, red onion, corn, cucumber, feta cheese, and tomatoes. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, oregano, basil, pepper, salt, and olive oil. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the bowl and toss everything together. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve the bowtie pasta salad at room temperature or chilled. Enjoy!
Tips for Making Bowtie Pasta Salad
This salad is very versatile and can easily be customized to suit your tastes. You can add in any of your favorite vegetables, such as artichoke hearts or roasted bell peppers. You can also switch up the herbs and spices that you use in the dressing. For a heartier salad, try adding in some cooked chicken or canned tuna.
Storage Tips
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, you may need to add a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice to help revive the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does bowtie pasta salad last in the fridge?
Bowtie pasta salad will last for up to three days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this pasta salad ahead of time. Simply prepare according to the recipe instructions and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Is bowtie pasta salad vegan?
Yes, this bowtie pasta salad is totally vegan. Simply omit the feta cheese to make it plant-based.
Can I use regular pasta instead of bowtie pasta?
Yes, you can use regular pasta instead of bowtie pasta for this recipe. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly depending on the type of pasta you use.
Can I add other ingredients to this pasta salad?
Yes, this bowtie pasta salad is very versatile and can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Try adding in some cooked chicken or canned tuna for a heartier salad. You can also switch up the herbs and spices that you use in the dressing.
