Dive into the world of bow tie pasta salads with our roundup of 20 delicious recipes that promise to spice up your mealtime! Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing for summer picnics or a hearty, comforting dish for cozy nights in, we’ve got a creative twist for every occasion. Perfect for home cooks looking to impress with minimal fuss, these recipes are your ticket to pasta salad perfection. Let’s get cooking!
Classic Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Nothing beats the vibrant flavors and colors of a Classic Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad, perfect for picnics or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
The combination of tangy dressing, fresh veggies, and creamy mozzarella makes this pasta salad a standout dish that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.
Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, add a handful of sun-dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Greek Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives
Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this vibrant Greek Bow Tie Pasta Salad, packed with tangy feta and briny olives.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 4 oz feta cheese, cubed
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
The crisp vegetables and creamy feta create a delightful contrast, while the oregano-infused dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the salad just before serving.
Summer Fresh Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Avocado
This Summer Fresh Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Avocado is a vibrant, creamy delight that’s perfect for picnics or a quick weeknight dinner. It’s packed with fresh flavors and comes together in no time!
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh basil.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Gently toss to combine, ensuring the avocado is evenly distributed without mashing.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon and fresh basil, creating a pasta salad that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of toasted pine nuts before serving.
Spicy Southwest Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Spice up your pasta salad game with this vibrant Spicy Southwest Bow Tie Pasta Salad, packed with bold flavors and a kick of heat that’s perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, corn, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The creamy dressing with a hint of lime and spice clings beautifully to every nook of the bow tie pasta, making each bite a delightful explosion of Southwest flavors.
Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, try grilling the corn before adding it to the salad.
Creamy Ranch Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This Creamy Ranch Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for picnics or potlucks with its creamy texture and tangy ranch flavor.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and parsley to the bowl. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The secret to this pasta salad’s irresistible flavor is the homemade ranch dressing that clings to every nook and cranny of the bow tie pasta.
Tip: For an extra crunch, add some crispy bacon bits right before serving.
Mediterranean Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this vibrant Bow Tie Pasta Salad, packed with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and feta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley to the bowl. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients with the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
The tangy feta and sweet sun-dried tomatoes create a delightful contrast, while the bow tie pasta catches every bit of the flavorful dressing.
Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
BBQ Chicken Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This BBQ Chicken Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser, combining smoky flavors with a creamy, tangy dressing for the perfect summer side or main dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or thawed from frozen
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, corn, red onion, and cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
The smoky BBQ sauce paired with the creamy dressing creates a depth of flavor that’s irresistibly good, while the bow tie pasta holds onto the dressing perfectly in every bite.
Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken before shredding and adding it to the salad.
Pesto Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This Pesto Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for picnics or a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a delightful mix of fresh pesto, juicy tomatoes, and tender pasta that comes together in no time.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, pesto, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
The bright acidity of the cherry tomatoes cuts through the richness of the pesto, creating a perfectly balanced bite every time.
Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top before serving.
Asian-Inspired Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This Asian-Inspired Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful twist on the classic pasta salad, perfect for picnics or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
- Add the cooled pasta, red bell pepper, carrots, and green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and give it one final toss.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
The combination of sweet honey and tangy rice vinegar with the crunch of fresh vegetables makes this pasta salad a standout dish that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.
Tip: For an extra crunch, add a handful of chopped peanuts right before serving.
Buffalo Chicken Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This Buffalo Chicken Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser, combining the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the cool creaminess of ranch in a dish that’s perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Toss with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, 1/2 cup buffalo sauce, and 1/4 cup ranch dressing. Mix until evenly coated.
- Add the 1/2 cup celery, 1/2 cup carrots, and 1/4 cup green onions to the bowl. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Gently toss to combine.
- Top the salad with 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles before serving.
The magic of this dish lies in the balance between the heat of the buffalo sauce and the cool, creamy textures of ranch and blue cheese, making every bite a delightful contrast.
Tip: For an extra crunch, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans right before serving.
Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a refreshing twist on the classic Caprese, perfect for picnics or a light summer dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The creamy mozzarella and tangy balsamic glaze create a delightful contrast with the fresh basil and sweet tomatoes, making this salad a standout dish.
Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, add a drizzle of additional balsamic glaze right before serving.
Roasted Vegetable Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This Roasted Vegetable Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a vibrant, hearty dish that brings together the smoky sweetness of roasted veggies with the playful twist of bow tie pasta, perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and zucchini with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- Cook bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, whisk together remaining 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar. Add the cooled pasta, roasted vegetables, fresh basil, and feta cheese. Toss gently to combine.
The contrast of warm roasted vegetables with cool pasta and the tangy pop of feta makes this salad a standout at any gathering.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Taco Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Chipotle Dressing
Spice up your pasta salad game with this Taco Bow Tie Pasta Salad, featuring a smoky chipotle dressing that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or thawed from frozen
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chipotle in adobo sauce, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The smoky heat from the chipotle dressing pairs perfectly with the crisp vegetables and tender pasta, making this salad a standout dish that’s as flavorful as it is colorful.
Tip: For an extra kick, add an additional teaspoon of chipotle in adobo sauce to the dressing.
Bacon Ranch Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This Bacon Ranch Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a creamy, crunchy, and utterly satisfying dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp dried dill
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, mayonnaise, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and red onion to the bowl. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
The combination of crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and creamy ranch dressing makes this pasta salad a crowd-pleaser with a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Tip: For an extra crunch, add some chopped celery or cucumber right before serving.
Lemon Garlic Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Brighten up your meal with this zesty Lemon Garlic Bow Tie Pasta Salad, a perfect blend of tangy and savory flavors that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, then toss again lightly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The vibrant lemon and garlic dressing clings beautifully to the ruffles of the bow tie pasta, creating a dish that’s as flavorful as it is visually appealing.
Tip: For an extra crunch, add some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds right before serving.
Spinach and Artichoke Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This Spinach and Artichoke Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a creamy, tangy twist on the classic pasta salad, perfect for picnics or as a hearty side dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 cup frozen artichoke hearts, thawed and chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooled pasta, chopped artichoke hearts, and spinach to the bowl. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The creamy dressing clings to every nook of the bow ties, while the artichokes and spinach add a fresh, vibrant contrast. It’s a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top before serving.
Chicken Caesar Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This Chicken Caesar Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Caesar, combining crisp romaine, tender chicken, and bow tie pasta in a creamy, garlicky dressing.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup croutons
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, and chopped romaine lettuce.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and croutons on top before serving.
The bow tie pasta catches the dressing in its folds, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor, while the croutons add a satisfying crunch.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, grill the chicken with a sprinkle of garlic powder before shredding.
Antipasto Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This Antipasto Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings the essence of an Italian antipasto platter into a satisfying, easy-to-make salad.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup sliced salami
- 1/2 cup diced provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to create the dressing.
- Add the cooled pasta, salami, provolone cheese, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and pepperoncini to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to combine.
- Fold in the chopped fresh basil just before serving to keep its flavor bright and fresh.
The magic of this salad lies in the harmony of tangy, salty, and fresh flavors, all brought together with the perfect al dente bite of bow tie pasta.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Herbed Goat Cheese Bow Tie Pasta Salad
This Herbed Goat Cheese Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a creamy, tangy delight that’s perfect for picnics or a quick weeknight dinner. It’s packed with fresh herbs and a dressing that’s irresistibly smooth.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
Instructions
- Cook bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together goat cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Fold in fresh basil and chives, then sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for a crunchy finish.
The magic of this pasta salad lies in the creamy goat cheese dressing that clings to every nook of the bow ties, while the toasted pine nuts add a surprising crunch.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, let the salad sit in the fridge for an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Sweet and Spicy Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Mango
This Sweet and Spicy Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Mango is a vibrant dish that brings a tropical twist to your table, perfect for those who love a balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Add the cooled pasta, diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
The juicy mango and spicy chili powder create a delightful contrast, making this pasta salad a standout dish at any summer gathering.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
Conclusion
We hope this roundup of 20 delicious bow tie pasta salad recipes inspires your next meal! Whether you’re looking for something quick, healthy, or packed with flavor, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment with what you loved, and share this article on Pinterest to spread the pasta salad love. Happy cooking!