Farfalle Pasta Salad Recipe

Farfalle pasta salad is a vibrant, fresh, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or quick weekday lunches. Featuring bowtie pasta, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful dressing, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep and stays fresh for days
• A great balance of flavors and textures
• Can be customized with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or dressings
• Ideal for warm-weather gatherings and picnics

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Farfalle pasta
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Red onion
• Bell peppers
• Black olives
• Feta cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice or vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Honey or maple syrup
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, black olives, and feta cheese if using.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Cheese options: Swap feta with mozzarella pearls or Parmesan shavings.
• Different dressings: Try a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy Italian dressing.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of fresh veggies and pasta may change.
• Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature; if needed, let it sit out for 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking and toss it with a little olive oil.

Can I make this pasta salad in advance?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours as the flavors meld together.

What’s the best pasta alternative if I don’t have farfalle?

Rotini, penne, or fusilli work well as substitutes.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving.

Can I add meat to this salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken, salami, or bacon are great options.

What type of olives work best?

Black olives are common, but kalamata olives add a briny kick.

Can I use bottled dressing instead of homemade?

Of course! Use your favorite store-bought vinaigrette for convenience.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, it holds up well in the fridge and makes for an easy lunch.

Can I add nuts or seeds?

Definitely! Try toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or almonds for added crunch.

Conclusion

Farfalle pasta salad is a fresh, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, lunch prep, or a side dish, it’s a guaranteed hit. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to make it your own!

Print