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Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Pesto

Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Pesto
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A fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Pesto combining al dente farfalle pasta, flavorful basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, perfect as a lunch, picnic dish, or side that is colorful, customizable, and packed with herbaceous goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Sauce

  • 8 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Fresh Ingredients

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn plus extra for garnish

Additional Seasonings and Garnishes

  • 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Prepare the Pesto: If using homemade pesto, blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and salt in a food processor until smooth. If using store-bought, give the jar a good stir before using.
  3. Combine Pasta and Pesto: In a large bowl, toss the cooled bow tie pasta with the pesto so each piece is evenly coated, making sure flavor gets into every nook of the pasta’s charming folds.
  4. Add Fresh Ingredients: Gently fold in halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and a handful of torn basil leaves to bring freshness, creaminess, and herbal notes to the salad.
  5. Season and Garnish: Drizzle olive oil over the top, then season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts if desired for a nutty crunch, and garnish with extra basil leaves.

Notes

  • Cook pasta just right: Aim for al dente to avoid mushy salad texture.
  • Cool pasta thoroughly: Rinse with cold water to prevent pesto from wilting the basil.
  • Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning at every stage to keep flavors balanced.
  • Use quality pesto: Fresh or high-quality store-bought pesto makes a huge difference.
  • Garnish last: Add herbs and nuts just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and freshness.
  • Reheat gently and add extra olive oil or pesto to revive flavors if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: Bow Tie Pasta Salad, Farfalle Salad, Pesto Pasta Salad, Summer Pasta Salad, Easy Pasta Salad, Vegetarian Pasta Salad

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/bow-tie-pasta-salad-with-pesto/