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Bow Tie Pasta Salad

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Fresh and vibrant bow tie pasta salad with juicy tomatoes, creamy bocconcini, and a light pesto dressing perfect for any occasion.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling / Mixing
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

12 ounces (4 cups) bow tie pasta, dry
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1 cup bocconcini cheese, halved
1 cup spinach, packed and finely chopped
1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
3 tablespoons pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook bow tie pasta according to package instructions until slightly past al dente.
Drain the pasta and rinse briefly under cold water to cool. Toss with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking and let cool completely.
In a small bowl, whisk together pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice to create the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bocconcini, spinach, and basil.
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust pesto or seasoning as needed.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

Rinse pasta lightly to cool it quickly without over-softening.
Adjust pesto quantity based on desired flavor intensity.
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Best served chilled or at room temperature.
Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.