Zesty Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Salad for Your Perfect Picnic

A vibrant Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Salad that's perfect for picnics and potlucks, easy to make and full of flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Chill Time 30

Total Time 55

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Salad

8 oz Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan option
1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
4 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Leaves or kale/arugula
1/2 cup Red Onion thinly sliced
1 cup Cucumber diced
1/3 cup Black Olives pitted

For the Dressing

1/2 cup Italian Dressing or homemade dressing
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper

For the Garnish

1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves optional

Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Salad Tongs

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Combine Fresh Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, spinach, onion, cucumber, and olives.
Add the Dressing: Pour Italian dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Incorporate Cheese and Season: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the salad and season with salt and pepper. Gently mix again.
Serve or Chill: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with basil, if desired. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Enjoy the Flavors: Fluff the salad and serve. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 60IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid mixing in dressing until ready to serve.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!