Farfalle Pasta Salad

This Farfalle Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch. With its bow-tie pasta, crunchy veggies, tangy vinaigrette, and fresh herbs, it’s full of flavor and easy to make ahead. This salad is a delicious mix of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

Course: Lunch, Side Dish                                    Cuisine: Mediterranean

Prep Time: 10 minutes                                       Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes                                       Servings: 8

Calories: 308 kcal                                                 Author: Premachi Recipe

Recipe Tools You Use

1. a big pot
2. Sharp knife
3. bowl
4. skillet
5. kitchen tongs

Farfalle Pasta Salad Recipe Video:

Ingredients:

1. 12 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
2. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3. 1 cucumber, diced
4. 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
5. 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
6. 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
7. 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
8. 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
9. 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
10. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Vinaigrette:

1. 1/4 cup olive oil
2. 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
4. 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
5. 1 garlic clove, minced
6. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
7. Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Farfalle

Begin by heating a large pot of salted water until it reaches a rolling boil. Introduce the farfalle pasta and prepare it in accordance with the instructions on the package until it achieves an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process, then set it aside to allow for drying.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While the pasta is cooling, dice the cucumber, bell peppers, and slice the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and black olives. Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This zesty dressing will bring all the flavors together!

Step 4: Combine the Salad

In the large mixing bowl with the veggies, add the cooled farfalle pasta. Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta and veggies, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Add Feta and Herbs

Fold in the crumbled feta cheese, fresh basil, and parsley. These ingredients add a bright, herby touch and a bit of creaminess from the feta.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a little more lemon juice for brightness or a pinch more salt and pepper to bring out the flavors.

Step 7: Serve or Chill

You can serve the pasta salad immediately, but it’s best when it has a chance to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Give it a final toss before serving.

Tips:

• Make It Vegan: Omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep this salad vegan-friendly.
• Add Protein: For a more filling salad, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
• Switch Up the Veggies: Feel free to mix in other veggies like zucchini, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers for more variety.
• Make Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just freshen it up with a little extra vinaigrette before serving.

This Farfalle Pasta Salad is light, fresh, and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. It’s a simple and versatile dish that works well as a side or main meal for any occasion.

Farfalle Pasta Salad Nutrition Information

Health Benefits of Farfalle Pasta Salad

1. Rich in Fiber: The veggies and whole grain pasta (if used) provide good dietary fiber, supporting digestive health.
2. Antioxidant Power: Red and yellow bell peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers are rich in antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals.
3. Heart Health: Olive oil, used in the vinaigrette, is high in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce cholesterol levels.
4. Weight Management: The salad is light yet filling due to its fiber-rich ingredients, which can help control appetite.
5. Bone Health: Feta cheese contains calcium, supporting strong bones and teeth.
6. Hydration: Cucumbers are hydrating and contribute to maintaining electrolyte balance.
7. Good Source of Vitamins: Fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins like Vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system.
8. Blood Sugar Regulation: The fiber content helps slow down digestion, assisting in blood sugar regulation.
9. Protein Boost: Incorporating ingredients such as chickpeas or grilled chicken provides extra protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
10. Versatile for Dietary Preferences: Can easily be made vegan, gluten-free, or tailored to fit various dietary needs.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for a maximum of three days. Keep it fresh by storing the vinaigrette separately and adding it just before serving if desired.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the fresh veggies and pasta may become soggy upon thawing.

Reheat and Reuse Instructions

• Reheat: While this salad is best served cold or at room temperature, if desired, you can lightly warm individual portions in the microwave for 30 seconds on medium heat. However, it’s recommended to enjoy it chilled.
• Reuse: Add some fresh ingredients to revive leftovers. For example, toss in some extra basil, fresh cherry tomatoes, or drizzle a little more vinaigrette to refresh the flavor. You can also add a protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn it into a heartier meal.

This Farfalle Pasta Salad is simple, versatile, and perfect for making ahead.

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