Get ready to transform your summer dining experience with the most irresistible pasta salad that's about to become your new obsession! This Bow Tie Summer Salad is not just a recipe; it's a vibrant, refreshing culinary journey that combines the perfect blend of fresh ingredients, zesty Italian dressing, and a burst of Mediterranean flavors. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a picnic, or simply craving a light and delicious meal, this salad promises to be the star of your summer spread.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Bow tie pasta
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, diced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Italian dressing
- Fresh basil leaves
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 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the bow tie pasta.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked bow tie pasta, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing and 2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
- Stir in the fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.
Tips
- Cook the pasta al dente: The key to a great pasta salad is perfectly cooked pasta. Make sure to cook your bow tie pasta just until it's tender but still has a slight bite.
- Reserve pasta water: The starchy pasta water helps the dressing cling to the pasta and creates a more cohesive flavor profile.
- Chill for maximum flavor: Letting the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes allows the ingredients to marinate and intensify the overall taste.
- Fresh is best: Use the freshest basil and ripe cherry tomatoes for the most vibrant flavor.
- Customize to your taste: Feel free to add grilled chicken, olives, or other vegetables to make this salad your own.
- Serve cold: This salad is best enjoyed chilled, making it perfect for hot summer days.
- Make ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 192kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
