Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than bowtie pasta salad with Italian dressing! This classic combination is a staple in many cuisines, and for good reason – it’s incredibly flavorful, refreshing, and can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just need a quick and healthy meal option, bowtie pasta salad with Italian dressing has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the simplicity of bowtie pasta with the richness of Italian dressing. From classic combinations featuring fresh vegetables and herbs, to more adventurous options incorporating grilled chicken, shrimp, and even spicy sausage, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a fork, get ready to dig in, and let’s explore the world of delicious bowtie pasta salad recipes!
Classic Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables
This refreshing pasta salad is a staple of Italian cuisine, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light and flavorful side dish. With its colorful mix of vegetables and tangy dressing, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 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, cucumber, carrots, bell pepper, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Bowtie Pasta Salad with Olives and Feta
Brighten up your plate with this vibrant and flavorful salad, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This Mediterranean-inspired bowl combines the tanginess of feta cheese with the brininess of olives, all on top of a bed of bowtie pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp red 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, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
3. Add the cooked pasta, sliced olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time)
Grilled Chicken Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
This refreshing salad combines grilled chicken, bowtie pasta, and tangy Italian dressing, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With minimal preparation time and cooking effort, you can enjoy this flavorful meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
2. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Add to the salad bowl along with cooked pasta.
5. Drizzle Italian dressing over the top and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Bowtie Pasta Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and bowtie pasta for a light and satisfying side dish or main course. Perfect for a summer evening or potluck gathering!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 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 sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking pasta only)
Antipasto Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Elevate your pasta game with this easy and flavorful antipasto-inspired salad, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch. This recipe combines the best of Italy’s flavors in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1/2 cup crumbled ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, pepperoni, and ricotta cheese.
3. Drizzle the Italian dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Bowtie Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil with the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 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.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss again to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek-Inspired Bowtie Pasta Salad with Cucumbers and Red Onion
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Greek-inspired recipe combines the flavors of feta cheese, olives, and fresh cucumbers with a hint of red onion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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, feta cheese, olives, cucumber, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Bowtie Pasta Salad
Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Bowtie Pasta Salad Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 large red bell pepper, roasted
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 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. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Roast the red bell pepper for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted red pepper, artichoke hearts, olives, and feta cheese.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to combine.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for any occasion. The combination of cooked bowtie pasta, wilted spinach, and tangy parmesan cheese creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, wilted spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Bowtie Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of classic pesto pasta with sweet cherry tomatoes and crunchy bowtie pasta, perfect for a light summer meal or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, basil, and feta cheese (if using). Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Bacon and Ranch Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Twist
Elevate your pasta salad game with this creamy, savory, and satisfying recipe that combines the flavors of Italy with a twist of ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp ranch dressing
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and Kalamata olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and Italian seasoning. Pour over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado and Corn Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the sweetness of corn, all tied together with a tangy Italian dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced avocado, corn kernels, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Italian dressing and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Pour dressing mixture over pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Lemon Bowtie Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and creamy mayonnaise will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the shrimp in a little bit of oil until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Three-Bean Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Herbs
This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy with a trio of beans and a hint of Mediterranean herbs, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked beans, olive oil, vinegar, oregano, and basil.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bean mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Lemon Garlic Bowtie Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of zesty lemon and pungent garlic with bowtie pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with garlic-lemon mixture.
5. Stir in cherry tomatoes and basil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
This colorful salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining roasted vegetables with tender pasta and tangy Italian dressing. It’s an ideal side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss pasta with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. In a separate bowl, toss zucchini, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-22 minutes or until tender.
4. Combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and garlic in a large bowl.
5. Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Prosciutto and Mozzarella Bowtie Pasta Salad
This salad is a creative twist on classic pasta dishes, featuring the savory flavors of prosciutto and mozzarella paired with bowtie pasta. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 slices prosciutto, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped prosciutto to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, prosciutto mixture, and sliced mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Bowtie Pasta Salad
Transform a simple pasta salad into a show-stopping main course with this creamy and flavorful Herbed Goat Cheese Bowtie Pasta Salad.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine crumbled goat cheese, parsley, basil, and garlic.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the goat cheese mixture.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Italian Sausage Bowtie Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and spicy Italian sausage bowtie pasta salad! This quick and easy recipe combines juicy sausage, tangy tomatoes, and crunchy veggies for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sliced sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cooled sausage, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and parsley.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Toss well to combine and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summer Garden Bowtie Pasta Salad with Fresh Herbs
Celebrate the flavors of summer with this vibrant pasta salad, bursting with fresh herbs and garden-fresh goodness.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as basil, mint, parsley, and dill)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and cilantro.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 mouthwatering bowtie pasta salad recipes, each featuring Italian dressing as the star! From classic combinations like fresh vegetables and olives to bold flavors like grilled chicken and spicy sausage, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired salads with feta and sun-dried tomatoes or go for a lighter option with spinach and parmesan. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or more elaborate, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling like you’re dining al fresco!
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