Description
A refreshing and colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad featuring tender bow tie pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy bocconcini cheese, and fresh herbs tossed in a zesty pesto-lemon dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces (4 cups) bow tie pasta, dry
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup spinach, packed, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup basil, finely chopped
Cheese
- 1 cup bocconcini cheese, halved
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, bring it to a boil, and add a generous amount of salt. Cook the bow tie pasta following the package instructions or until slightly past al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Allow it to cool to room temperature, or rinse briefly under cold water to speed up cooling.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine pesto, olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisk thoroughly until well mixed to create a flavorful dressing.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, halved bocconcini cheese, finely chopped spinach, and chopped basil. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Toss with Dressing and Season: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning and pesto quantity if desired.
- Serve or Store: The salad can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a great make-ahead dish.
Notes
- Rinsing the pasta under cold water after cooking helps cool it faster and prevents overcooking.
- Tossing pasta with olive oil after cooking prevents sticking and clumping.
- Adjust pesto amount in the dressing based on its thickness and personal taste preference.
- This salad can be enjoyed as a light main dish or a delightful side.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
