This Bowtie Pasta Salad with Basil Ribbons is a vibrant and refreshing dish, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick, flavorful meal. The pasta's unique bowtie shape holds onto the tangy and savory dressing, which typically combines olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a hint of mustard for depth. Fresh basil ribbons are the star of this salad, adding a fragrant, herbal note that elevates the dish. Cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and mozzarella pearls provide a colorful contrast, while the salad is finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan for added richness. It's a light yet satisfying option that's both easy to prepare and versatile enough to complement any main course.
Ingredients
8 ounces of dried whole wheat bowtie pasta (about 3 generous cups)
1 small red bell pepper, diced into 3/4-inch pieces (approximately 1 cup)
8 ounces of cooked chicken, diced into 3/4-inch pieces (about 1½ cups)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ to 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed (optional)
⅓ cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed and sliced into thin ribbons
⅓ cup Italian salad dressing
Instructions
Cook the bowtie pasta following the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it and rinse with cold water, then drain again.
Transfer the pasta to a large bowl. Add the diced bell pepper, chicken, crumbled feta, chickpeas (if using), basil ribbons, and Italian dressing. Stir everything together until well combined.
For easy transport, pack the salad in airtight containers or a bento-style lunchbox to enjoy at school or work.
To learn more about how to prepare, watch the video:
