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Pasta salads are a celebration of flavors, textures, and colors, making them a beloved choice for gatherings, barbecues, and casual family meals. Their versatility allows cooks to experiment with a variety of ingredients and dressings, creating dishes that can be tailored to suit any occasion. Among the plethora of pasta salad options, the Bow Tie Pasta Salad Fiesta stands out as a vibrant and refreshing choice that captivates with its delightful combination of colorful vegetables, creamy cheese, and zesty dressing.

Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Celebrate flavor with this vibrant Bow Tie Pasta Salad Fiesta! Perfect for gatherings, this colorful dish features bow tie pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a medley of olives and bell peppers, all tossed in a zesty dressing of olive oil and red wine vinegar. Finished with feta cheese and fresh basil, this salad is a refreshing side or main. Easy to prepare in just 45 minutes, it's a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Enjoy it cold for the perfect summer treat!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz bow tie pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1 cup black olives, sliced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, sliced black olives, and chopped red onion.

      Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, gently tossing to combine all ingredients evenly.

          Add Cheese and Herbs: Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped basil. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

            Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6-8