Introduction
This delicious pasta salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a light meal. With a combination of fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and a tangy dressing, it’s both satisfying and nutritious. The use of bow tie pasta provides an appealing shape that holds the dressing and flavors beautifully. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe that can be prepared in advance and stored for later.
Ingredients
Pasta:
– 500g (1 lb) bow tie pasta (farfalle) or other short/medium pasta
Add-ins:
– 2 cucumbers, halved lengthways and finely sliced (approximately 17 cm/7″ long, sliced 2 mm / 1/16″)
– 3 cups (500g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (or chop 4 regular tomatoes)
– 1/3 cup roughly chopped Kalamata olives (3/4 cup whole pitted or 1/2 cup sliced, then chop)
– 200g (7 oz) Greek feta, cut into 6 mm (1/4″) batons (they will crumble a bit, this is good)
– 1 packed cup basil leaves, torn by hand
Dressing:
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 garlic cloves, minced using a garlic press or very finely minced using a knife
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (can omit)
– 2 teaspoons honey (substitute with maple syrup or 1 teaspoon sugar)
– 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian herbs mix
– 3/4 teaspoon cooking salt / kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 6-8
Directions
1. Prepare the Dressing: In a large jar, combine all the dressing ingredients. Shake well until emulsified. The dressing will be sharp in flavor, which will mellow once mixed with the pasta and vegetables.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it is very soft, about 2–3 minutes longer than the time indicated on the package. This ensures the pasta remains tender after cooling.
3. Combine Pasta with Dressing: Drain the pasta thoroughly, shaking off excess water. Transfer the hot pasta to a large bowl. Shake the dressing again and pour about two-thirds over the pasta. Toss well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Let the pasta sit and absorb the dressing as it cools to room temperature, approximately 40 minutes. Toss occasionally if possible.
4. Add Vegetables and Remaining Dressing: Once the pasta has cooled, add the halved tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, chopped olives, and feta to the bowl. Pour the remaining dressing over the mixture and toss well to combine.
5. Incorporate Basil: Add the torn basil leaves to the salad and gently toss to distribute evenly.
6. Serve: Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl and serve at room temperature.
Storage
The pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal flavor, allow it to come to room temperature before serving. If making ahead for a gathering, keep the basil separate and add it just before serving to maintain its freshness.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a large jar, combine all the dressing ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, Italian herbs mix, cooking salt, and black pepper. Shake well until the dressing is emulsified. The flavor will be sharp initially but will mellow when mixed with the pasta and vegetables.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook it until it is very soft, about 2–3 minutes longer than the time indicated on the package. This will ensure the pasta remains tender after cooling.
Combine Pasta with Dressing
After cooking, drain the pasta thoroughly and shake off the excess water. Transfer the hot pasta to a large bowl. Shake the dressing again and pour about two-thirds of it over the pasta. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Allow the pasta to sit and absorb the dressing as it cools to room temperature, which should take approximately 40 minutes. Toss occasionally to encourage even absorption.
Add Vegetables and Remaining Dressing
Once the pasta has cooled, add the halved cherry or grape tomatoes, finely sliced cucumbers, chopped Kalamata olives, and feta batons to the bowl. Pour the remaining dressing over the mixture and toss well to ensure everything is combined.
Incorporate Basil
Add the torn basil leaves to the pasta salad and gently toss to evenly distribute them throughout the mixture.
Serve
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl and serve at room temperature.
Notes
Storage
The pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal flavor, allow the salad to come to room temperature before serving. If preparing in advance for a gathering, it is advisable to keep the basil separate and add it just before serving to maintain its freshness.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Dressing
Combine all the dressing ingredients in a large jar and shake well until emulsified. This method enhances flavor blending and allows for easy storage.
Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for cooking the pasta. Ensure the pasta is cooked slightly longer than the package instructions for a tender result after cooling.
Combining Pasta with Dressing
After draining the pasta, transfer it to a large bowl and mix in two-thirds of the dressing. Tossing the hot pasta with the dressing helps it absorb flavors as it cools.
Adding Vegetables and Remaining Dressing
Once cooled, mix in vegetables and the remaining dressing. This step ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the pasta salad.
Incorporating Basil
Tear the basil leaves by hand and gently fold them into the salad. This method helps to retain the vibrant flavor and aroma of the basil.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the bow tie pasta with any other short or medium pasta of your choice.
How can I adjust the dressing for a milder flavor?
To achieve a milder dressing, you can reduce the amount of apple cider vinegar or add more olive oil.
Can I make the pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! The pasta salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Should I add the basil right away?
For the freshest flavor, it’s best to add the basil just before serving if you are preparing the salad ahead of time.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Kalamata olives?
If you lack Kalamata olives, you can use other types of olives, such as green olives or black olives, according to your preference.
Conclusion
This vibrant pasta salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for warm weather gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. The combination of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing creates a delightful and satisfying meal. With the option to store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, it’s a convenient choice for meal prep.
Classic Greek Pasta Salad
Substitute bow tie pasta with penne or fusilli, add chopped bell peppers, and increase the feta for a traditional Greek flair.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Replace pasta with cooked quinoa, featuring similar add-ins such as cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta for a gluten-free option.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables
Incorporate grilled zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers for a smoky flavor profile, and consider a balsamic reduction for the dressing.
Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad
Add sliced salami, mozzarella balls, and roasted red peppers to the pasta for a heartier dish that embodies classic antipasto flavors.
Spicy Shrimp Pasta Salad
Toss in sautéed shrimp seasoned with chili flakes to bring a kick to the salad, complementing the fresh ingredients beautifully.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Use fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a fresh twist on the beloved Caprese salad.
Fruit and Nut Pasta Salad
Incorporate diced apples, raisins, and walnuts or pecans for a sweet and crunchy contrast that offers a unique breakfast or brunch option.
