Nothing says summer like a vibrant pasta salad, and this Italian-inspired bow tie pasta salad is ideal for BBQs, potlucks, or light lunches. Packed with spinach, cherry tomatoes, bocconcini cheese, and fresh basil, and tossed in a zesty basil pesto dressing, this farfalle pasta salad is light, flavorful, and full of healthy fats and fiber.
Unlike heavy mayo-based pasta salads, this version is refreshing, easy to make, and keeps beautifully in the fridge for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (4 cups) bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup bocconcini cheese, halved (or cubed mozzarella/feta)
- 1 cup spinach, packed and finely chopped (or arugula)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp basil pesto
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: cucumber, red bell pepper, zucchini, carrots, green onion, or black olives for extra crunch and flavor.
Dietary adaptations:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bow tie pasta.
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese and use dairy-free pesto.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil bow tie pasta in heavily salted water until al dente. Drain, toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, and allow to cool to room temperature. (Optional: rinse under cold water to speed cooling.)
- Prep the Veggies: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the onion, chop the spinach, and slice the bocconcini cheese. Chop the basil finely.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together the basil pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice in a small bowl or jar.
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, vegetables, cheese, and basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freshen up leftovers with an extra drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, or a pinch of salt and pepper before serving.
Tips & Notes
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
- Flavor Flexibility: Swap or add vegetables according to your preferences.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve as a side with burgers, grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal.
Nutrition (per serving, 1 of 8)
- Calories: 236
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbs: 35 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Why This Pasta Salad Works
- Light & Refreshing: No heavy mayonnaise—perfect for summer.
- Nutritious: Full of fiber, complex carbs, and healthy fats.
- Versatile: Works as a side dish or vegetarian main course.
- Colorful & Crowd-Pleasing: Bow tie pasta, vibrant veggies, and fresh herbs make it visually appealing.