Why Make This Recipe
Fresh Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch. This salad is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seasonal produce and satisfy your hunger with a satisfying meal.
How to Make Fresh Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 12 ounces (340 grams) bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed)
- 8 ounces (225 grams) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved or quartered
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup pine nuts or toasted walnuts
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until fully combined and slightly thickened.
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Dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and roughly chop the basil and parsley. Halve or quarter the mozzarella balls depending on their size.
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Add the cucumbers, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and parsley to the cooled pasta. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
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Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. For the best flavor, chill for an hour or overnight.
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Optional: Sprinkle pine nuts or toasted walnuts on top just before serving for added crunch and nuttiness.
How to Serve Fresh Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Serve this pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. It can be a main dish or a side dish. Pair it with grilled meats or serve it alongside fresh bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Fresh Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving leftovers, give it a gentle stir, and add a little more dressing if needed.
Tips to Make Fresh Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato Bow Tie Pasta Salad
- Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and olive oil for richer flavor.
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- If you prefer a stronger taste, add more garlic or herbs.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding grilled chicken for protein, or switch the mozzarella for feta cheese for a tangy twist. Adding olives can also enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
FAQs
How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
This pasta salad lasts for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great to make ahead. In fact, letting it sit for an hour or overnight makes the flavors even better.
What can I use instead of bow tie pasta?
You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or rotini, depending on your preference.
