Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 mouthwatering bowtie pasta salad recipes featuring Italian dressing as the star! From classic combinations to international twists, we’ve got you covered with a variety of flavors and textures that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course, these recipes are perfect for any occasion.
From Mediterranean-inspired salads featuring olives and feta cheese, to spicy pepperoni-packed bowls and creamy avocado-based creations, we’ve gathered the best of the best in one place. So go ahead, get creative, and let your taste buds do the tango with these incredible bowtie pasta salad recipes!
Classic Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the freshness of seasonal vegetables, creating a light and satisfying salad perfect for any occasion. With minimal cooking time and no fuss, you can enjoy this delicious pasta salad in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 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 bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, cucumber, 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 the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Bowtie Pasta Salad with Olives and Feta
This vibrant salad brings together the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish. The combination of bowtie pasta, olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs creates a delightful harmony of tastes and textures.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp 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 cooked pasta, sliced olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Pepperoni Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
A flavorful and refreshing pasta salad that combines the spiciness of pepperoni with the tanginess of Italian dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup pepperoni slices
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup Italian dressing
Instructions:
1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pepperoni slices, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. Drizzle Italian dressing over the top and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Herbs
This refreshing summer salad combines grilled chicken, bowtie pasta, and a medley of Italian herbs for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
4. Add cooked pasta, grilled chicken, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Bowtie Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad perfect for potlucks or picnics, this Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Bowtie Pasta Salad is a flavorful twist on classic pasta salads.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the tomato-basil mixture.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Antipasto Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
A colorful and flavorful pasta salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the creaminess of Italian dressing with the savory flavors of antipasto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, and feta cheese.
3. Pour in the Italian dressing and toss the salad to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Bowtie Pasta Salad
This hearty pasta salad combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tender crunch of artichokes, all tied together with a flavorful bowtie pasta. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred.
3. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
5. Add roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and cooked pasta to the bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Greek-Inspired Bowtie Pasta Salad with Cucumber and Kalamata Olives
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of Greece, featuring bowtie pasta, juicy cucumber, and briny kalamata olives. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this salad is ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, cucumber slices, and Kalamata olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar and olive oil. Add minced garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pesto Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Drizzle
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of pesto, bowtie pasta, and Italian dressing for a deliciously easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled mozzarella cheese
– 2 tbsp Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle Italian dressing over the top of the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Bowtie Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil
A classic Italian-inspired pasta salad that combines the flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and chopped basil. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until the pasta is well coated with the tomato-mozzarella mixture.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Bowtie Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta salad game with this sweet and tangy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the 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 cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and honey until well combined.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cherry tomatoes. Pour in the balsamic glaze and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
A classic pasta salad gets a boost of flavor and nutrition from the addition of spinach and parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup Italian dressing
– 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 cooked pasta, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Pour in the Italian dressing and toss until the pasta is well coated.
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 required! Just assemble and chill.
Garlic Herb Bowtie Pasta Salad with Grilled Zucchini
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of garlic, herbs, and grilled zucchini with bowtie pasta. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush zucchinis with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender.
2. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled zucchini, chopped parsley, and chopped basil.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Prosciutto and Arugula Bowtie Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this refreshing Italian-inspired recipe, combining the salty sweetness of prosciutto with the peppery flavor of arugula.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh arugula
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 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 vinegar.
3. Add cooked pasta, arugula, prosciutto, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Bowtie Pasta Salad with Asparagus
This refreshing pasta salad combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with the tender sweetness of asparagus, all tied together with al dente bowtie pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 cups fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook 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 asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and garlic.
4. Add cooked pasta, asparagus, and Parmesan cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Three-Bean Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful pasta salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the classic flavors of Italy with the convenience of canned beans, making it a great option for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup Italian dressing
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine kidney beans, cannellini beans, and black beans.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bean mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour Italian dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Stir in chopped parsley and 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
Avocado and Corn Bowtie Pasta Salad with Italian Flavors
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of avocado, sweetness of corn, and tanginess of Italian flavors, perfect for a light and satisfying summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, corn kernels, olive oil, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the avocado-corn mixture.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Tuscan-Inspired Bowtie Pasta Salad with White Beans and Rosemary
Transport yourself to the rolling hills of Tuscany with this vibrant and flavorful pasta salad, featuring creamy white beans, fragrant rosemary, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans (or other white beans)
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta al dente; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked white beans, olive oil, garlic, and chopped rosemary. Toss to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bean mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a flavorful fusion of pasta, vegetables, and Italian dressing with these 18 mouth-watering bowtie pasta salad recipes! From classic combinations like fresh vegetables and herbs, to Mediterranean-inspired dishes featuring olives and feta, there’s something for everyone. Spicy pepperoni, grilled chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes add excitement to each dish. Try unique twists like pesto drizzle, balsamic glaze, or prosciutto and arugula. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and satisfying, these recipes are sure to please.
