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Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad

Zesty Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad Bursting with Fresh Flavors

Enjoy a vibrant and easy-to-make Italian Bowtie Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings and packed with fresh flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

Vinaigrette
  • 2 cloves grated garlic Provides strong flavor; use fresh cloves for the best taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adds a blend of herbs; substitute with individual dried herbs if necessary.
  • pinch red pepper flakes Supplies heat and spice; adjust quantity to taste or omit for a milder salad.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavors; regular salt can be used, but reduce quantity due to higher saltiness.
  • teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adds depth; pre-ground can be used but won't be as fragrant.
  • cup red wine vinegar Offers acidity and tang; substitute with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
  • ¾ cup olive oil A base for the vinaigrette that adds richness; use extra virgin for better taste or any light oil if necessary.
Salad
  • 8 ounces bowtie pasta Main ingredient providing structure; substitute with any pasta shape as preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt Used to season cooking water to flavor the pasta.
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes Adds sweetness and color; can substitute with diced regular tomatoes or omit if not desired.
  • 1 cup broccoli florets Provides crunch and nutrition; substitute with any preferred vegetable such as bell peppers or snap peas.
  • 1 cup diced yellow bell pepper Adds color and sweetness; use any variety or color based on preference.
  • 1 cup diced orange bell pepper Adds color and sweetness; use any variety or color based on preference.
  • 4 ounces diced Genoa salami Contributes savory flavor and richness; can be replaced with pepperoni, turkey salami, or omitted for a vegetarian version.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds richness and flavor; use pecorino Romano for a stronger taste, or skip for a lactose-free option.

Equipment

  • Medium jar
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium jar, combine grated garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Add red wine vinegar and olive oil. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well blended.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add sea salt. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally.
  3. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water for 1-2 minutes. Shake the colander gently to ensure all water is drained.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, blend the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, and diced yellow and orange bell peppers. Add diced Genoa salami if using.
  5. Pour half of the prepared vinaigrette over the mixture and add grated Parmesan cheese. Toss the salad with tongs to combine.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Before serving, toss the salad with the remaining vinaigrette. Add freshly cracked black pepper and extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor; wilting can detract from the salad. Adjust the dressing according to taste preferences and consider making it in advance to enhance flavor.

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