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Parmesan Bow Tie Italian Pasta Salad

Refreshing Parmesan Bow Tie Italian Pasta Salad for Summer Fun

Enjoy a vibrant and flavorful Parmesan Bow Tie Italian Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Bowtie Pasta Substitute with any medium-sized pasta.
For the Veggies
  • 3/4 cup Cherry Tomatoes Use grape tomatoes if unavailable.
  • 3/4 cup English Cucumber Can swap for Persian cucumber.
  • 3/4 cup Red Bell Pepper Any color bell pepper can be used.
  • 1/4 cup Diced Red Onion Use green onion or shallots if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Sliced Black Olives Green olives can be substituted.
  • 1/4 cup Sliced Spanish Olives Replace with Kalamata olives for a stronger taste.
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley Replace with basil or cilantro for a different herbaceous note.
For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Avocado oil can be a lighter option.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Use a mix of dried oregano, thyme, and basil if unavailable.
  • 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic may be used instead.
  • 1/4 tsp Salt Adjust to preference.
  • 1/8 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to preference.
  • 1 tsp Honey Optional; substitute with agave syrup or omit for vegan options.
For the Cheese
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitute with pecorino or omit for a dairy-free version.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add 8 oz of bowtie pasta and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp of red wine vinegar, 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, 1/4 tsp of garlic powder, 1/4 tsp of salt, 1/8 tsp of black pepper, and 1 tsp of honey if using. Whisk until well-blended.
  3. Chop cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, and red onion. Add to the dressing along with sliced olives. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Add the cooled bowtie pasta to the mixing bowl with the veggies and dressing. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and gently toss until coated.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 6gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 6mg

Notes

For heartier options, consider adding diced grilled chicken or chickpeas. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

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