Mediterranean Bow Tie Pasta Salad

This bow tie pasta salad is my fresh, Mediterranean-inspired take on a classic pasta salad — loaded with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, sweet red bell peppers, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. Tossed in a bright lemon-herb dressing, this easy pasta salad recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, potlucks, or a quick light lunch. It’s colorful, refreshing, and packed with bold flavors in every bite.

Mediterranean Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Serves: 4–6 people

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

 

Ingredients

 

Salad

  • 12 oz (340 g) bow tie pasta (farfalle)
  • 1 cup cucumber, sliced or diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Complimentary Lemon-Herb Dressing

 

This dressing matches the fresh Mediterranean vibe in the image.

 

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey (optional, for balance)
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
  2. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente
  3. Drain and rinse under cool water
  4. Let pasta cool completely
  1. Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine:

  • Cooked bow tie pasta
  • Cucumbers
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Red bell pepper
  • Kalamata olives
  • Fresh parsley
  1. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar:

  • Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper
  • Taste and adjust seasoning
  1. Assemble
  1. Pour dressing over pasta salad
  2. Toss gently until evenly coated
  3. Sprinkle feta cheese on top
  4. Add extra parsley for garnish

Ingredient Notes

This Mediterranean Bow Tie Pasta Salad is my fresh take on a classic pasta salad, combining tender farfalle, crisp vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta tossed in a bright lemon herb dressing. Here’s a closer look at each ingredient and what makes this salad so flavorful:

 

For the Salad

Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle): Cooked until al dente for the perfect tender bite that holds the dressing beautifully.

Cucumber: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch that keeps the salad light and fresh.

Cherry Tomatoes: Halved for juicy sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.

Red Bell Pepper: Thinly sliced for natural sweetness and a subtle crunch.

Kalamata Olives: Bring a briny, savory flavor that gives the salad a Mediterranean touch.

Feta Cheese: Crumbled for creamy, tangy richness that balances the fresh vegetables.

Fresh Parsley: Chopped to add brightness and a fresh herbal finish.

 

For the Lemon Herb Dressing

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Creates a smooth, rich base that coats the pasta evenly.

Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds bright, zesty flavor that lifts the entire salad.

Red Wine Vinegar: Provides a gentle tang that enhances the Mediterranean flavors.

Dijon Mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing while adding subtle depth.

Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.

Garlic: Finely minced for a gentle savory kick.

Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances and ties all the flavors together.

Check Out Your Options!!

Recipe Variations

 

  • Greek Chicken Bow Tie Pasta Salad — Add grilled chicken and extra feta for a heartier meal
  • Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad — Add salami, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil
  • Veggie-Loaded Pasta Salad — Add zucchini, carrots, and spinach for extra vegetables
  • Creamy Bow Tie Pasta Salad — Mix in a little Greek yogurt or mayo for a creamy dressing
  • Pesto Bow Tie Pasta Salad — Toss with basil pesto instead of lemon herb dressing
  • Avocado Bow Tie Pasta Salad — Add diced avocado for creamy richness
  • Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad — Add chickpeas for extra protein and texture
  • Spicy Bow Tie Pasta Salad — Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat
  • Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad — Add mozzarella balls and fresh basil with balsamic drizzle
  • Tuna Bow Tie Pasta Salad — Add canned tuna for an easy protein boost
  • Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta Salad — Toss in cooked shrimp for a light summer version
  • Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad — Add roasted peppers, zucchini, and onions for deeper flavor

This Mediterranean bow tie pasta salad is the perfect balance of fresh flavors, simple ingredients, and easy prep. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, meal prep lunch, or potluck side dish, this easy pasta salad recipe delivers every time.

 

Why you’ll love it:

  • Perfect Mediterranean pasta salad for summer gatherings 
  • Quick and easy bow tie pasta salad recipe for busy days 
  • Packed with fresh vegetables and feta for bold flavor 
  • Great for meal prep, picnics, and potlucks 
  • Light, refreshing, and family-friendly pasta salad everyone will enjoy

Make it ahead, chill, and enjoy a fresh, vibrant pasta salad that tastes even better the next day.