Cold Vegetarian Bow Tie Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer

There’s something universally appealing about a big, vibrant bowl of cold pasta salad. Whether you’re prepping for a summer picnic, a potluck, or simply craving a refreshing make-ahead meal, a cold vegetarian bow tie pasta salad is always a hit.

The bow tie, or farfalle, pasta not only looks charming on the plate but perfectly captures dressings and diced veggies in every bite. Tossed with crisp, seasonal vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette, this pasta salad is both satisfying and light.

Best of all, it’s endlessly adaptable—just swap in your favorite veggies or add a protein-packed twist. Pull up a chair and let’s make a classic cold vegetarian bow tie pasta salad that will become your go-to recipe for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep, you can have a hearty, flavor-packed salad ready in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand, or add beans, nuts, or cheese for extra flavor and texture.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after chilling, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber-rich veggies and a light homemade vinaigrette, it’s a wholesome vegetarian option.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve at picnics, barbecues, or as a side for family dinners—it’s always a crowd pleaser!

If you love easy vegetarian meals, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for more inspiration!

Ingredients

Feel free to add or swap in your favorite veggies, beans, or fresh herbs!

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Colander (for draining pasta)
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl or jar (for making dressing)
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Salad tongs or large spoon (for tossing salad)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta.

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 10-11 minutes).

   Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.

2. Prepare the vegetables.

   While the pasta is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. Slice the olives and chop the parsley.

3. Make the dressing.

   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

4. Combine pasta and veggies.

   In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, and parsley. If using feta cheese, add it now.

5. Toss with dressing.

   Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss everything together until well combined and all ingredients are evenly coated.

6. Chill the salad.

   Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad even more refreshing.

7. Serve and enjoy!

   Give the salad a final toss before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or feta if desired.

   Enjoy cold.

Tip: For best flavor, let the salad chill for at least an hour. This gives the dressing time to infuse every bite!

Tips & Variations

• Make it vegan: Simply omit the feta cheese, or substitute with a plant-based feta or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
• Add protein: For a heartier salad, toss in a can of rinsed chickpeas, white beans, or grilled tofu cubes.
• Switch up the veggies: Try adding blanched broccoli, artichoke hearts, sweet corn, or shredded carrots for extra color and crunch.
• Try a different dressing: A balsamic vinaigrette, Italian dressing, or even our vegan salad dressing recipe is a great twist!
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free bow tie pasta and check that your mustard is certified gluten-free.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a spoonful of our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan for a subtle kick!

“This pasta salad is a blank canvas—get creative with what’s in your fridge or garden!”

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition will vary depending on vegetable choices and whether cheese is included.

Serving Suggestions

• Picnic or Potluck: Pack alongside sandwiches, fresh fruit, and a pitcher of lemonade for a perfect outdoor meal.
• Grill Night: Serve as a side to veggie burgers, grilled tofu, or kebabs for a balanced summer feast.
• Meal Prep: Portion into containers for easy, grab-and-go vegetarian lunches all week.
• Buffet Spread: Pair with other crowd-pleasers like Cauliflower Salad Recipe Vegan or Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals.
• Light Dinner: Add a handful of arugula or spinach and serve with crusty bread for a satisfying plant-based evening meal.

Conclusion

A cold vegetarian bow tie pasta salad is more than just a summer side—it’s a celebration of crisp vegetables, zesty dressing, and the simple pleasure of eating colorful, wholesome food. This recipe is endlessly adaptable, budget-friendly, and perfect for sharing at any gathering—or for enjoying all week long as a fresh lunch or light dinner.

With each bite, you get a satisfying mix of textures and flavors that’s sure to win over vegetarians and omnivores alike.

If you’re looking to expand your vegetarian cooking repertoire, don’t forget to check out our collection of Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals, or try something new from our Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love.

Enjoy, and happy cooking!

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