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Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Grape Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe

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4.2 from 1 review

A vibrant and creamy Bow Tie Pasta Salad combining al dente farfalle pasta with juicy grape tomatoes, diced mozzarella, black olives, and fresh basil, all tossed in a flavorful creamy Italian dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 3 cups uncooked farfalle pasta

Dressing

  • 3/4 cup creamy Italian dressing (such as Olive Garden Italian Dressing), separated

Vegetables & Cheese

  • 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 (8 ounce) block mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4″ dice
  • 1 (6 ounce) can pitted black olives, drained
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and rinse under cool running water until just warm to the touch to stop the cooking process and cool it slightly.
  2. Toss with Initial Dressing: Transfer the warm pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add 1/4 cup of the creamy Italian dressing and a generous pinch of salt. Toss well to combine and set aside to cool completely, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the dressing flavor.
  3. Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the halved grape tomatoes, diced mozzarella cheese, drained black olives, and chopped fresh basil to the bowl with the pasta. Pour in the remaining 1/2 cup of creamy Italian dressing and toss everything together until evenly coated. Season to taste with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Notes

  • For best texture, avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain a slight firmness.
  • You can prepare this salad a few hours ahead and refrigerate to let flavors meld.
  • Feel free to add other fresh vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
  • Use fresh mozzarella if available for better flavor and texture.
  • This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.

Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/bow-tie-pasta-salad-with-grape-tomatoes-mozzarella-and-basil-recipe/