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Vibrant Italian Pasta Salad

This Italian bow tie pasta salad bursts with fresh flavors. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and crisp spinach create a delightful summer dish perfect for any gathering.

Chef Maria - Head Chef
By Chef Maria
4.7 (150 reviews)
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Delicious Vibrant Italian Pasta Salad - homemade Italian comfort food recipe
Vibrant Italian Pasta Salad - Ready to enjoy

Imagine a warm summer day, laughter echoing through the backyard, and the tantalizing aroma of fresh basil wafting through the air. This Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad is your ticket to a delightful culinary escape. With each bite, you’ll savor the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the creamy richness of mozzarella, and the vibrant crunch of spinach. It's a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also paints a picture of Italian countryside charm, making it a perfect centerpiece for your summer gatherings.

Why I Love This Recipe

What makes this Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad truly special is its simplicity and burst of flavors. The bow tie pasta, with its fun shape, holds the dressing beautifully, ensuring every forkful is packed with taste. The cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness, while the mozzarella balls provide a creamy contrast. Fresh spinach leaves introduce a crisp texture and a hint of earthiness. This salad is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, with its vibrant colors reminiscent of a Tuscan garden. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this salad brings a touch of Italian sunshine to your table.

Step-by-step preparation of Vibrant Italian Pasta Salad showing ingredients and initial cooking steps
Preparing the ingredients
Cooking process for Vibrant Italian Pasta Salad showing technique and proper timing
During the cooking process

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Large Pot

Essential for boiling the pasta to perfection

Colander

Drains the pasta efficiently, keeping it al dente

Mixing Bowl

Allows for easy tossing of ingredients, ensuring even distribution of flavors

Chef's Knife

Perfect for slicing tomatoes and chopping spinach with precision

Wooden Spoon

Ideal for gently mixing the salad without damaging delicate ingredients

Perfect Pairings

Grilled Chicken

Complements the salad with its smoky flavor and adds protein

Garlic Bread

Offers a crunchy, buttery contrast that enhances the Italian theme

White Wine

A crisp Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the fresh ingredients

Lemon Sorbet

Cleanses the palate with its refreshing citrus notes

Caprese Skewers

Echoes the salad's flavors, making for a cohesive meal experience

Perfectly cooked Vibrant Italian Pasta Salad served and ready to eat - final result
The perfect finished result

Pro Tips

  • Use fresh basil for the best aroma and flavor. It elevates the entire dish with its fragrant notes.
  • Cook the pasta al dente to maintain a firm texture. It should have a slight bite to complement the creamy mozzarella.
  • Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

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Vibrant Italian Pasta Salad

Experience the taste of summer with this colorful Italian pasta salad. The combination of ripe tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and fresh spinach makes it a refreshing choice for picnics and BBQs.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Category: Salads
Servings: 4 yields
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

💡 Click on ingredients to check them off!

  • 8 oz bow tie pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup mozzarella balls
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

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  1. 1
    Cook Pasta
    Boil bow tie pasta in salted water until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. 2
    Prepare Dressing
    In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3
    Mix Ingredients
    In a large bowl, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, spinach, and red onion.
  4. 4
    Add Dressing
    Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. 5
    Add Basil
    Sprinkle fresh basil over the salad and gently mix to incorporate the flavors.
  6. 6
    Serve and Enjoy
    Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories 320
Total Fat 18.0g
Carbohydrates 28.0g
Protein 12.0g

Chef's Notes

  • Serve this pasta salad chilled for a refreshing summer treat. The coolness enhances the flavors of fresh tomatoes and mozzarella.
  • Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist. It complements the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully.
  • For a heartier meal, toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp. The protein pairs perfectly with the pasta and veggies.
  • This dish is a visual delight with its vibrant reds, greens, and whites. It's sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and let it come to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavors.

You can use feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Both cheeses add a delightful creaminess and tang that complements the other ingredients well.

After cooking, rinse the pasta under cold water to remove excess starch. Toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking while it cools.

Absolutely! This pasta salad is vegetarian-friendly, featuring fresh vegetables and mozzarella. For a vegan option, simply replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative.