🥒 Simple Veggie Salad with Bowtie Pasta & Balsamic Vinaigrette

For the lightest and easiest summer dish, look no further than our Simple Veggie Salad with Bowtie Pasta, tossed in a delicious Balsamic Vinaigrette. This pasta salad is perfect for picnics, entertaining, or just a regular weeknight!

Course Dinner, Lunch, Main Course, Salad, Side Dish

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings

Calories 539.6kcal

Author Marcie & Julie

Equipment

large pot
Large bowl

Ingredients

Pasta

4 teaspoons Kosher salt divided (2 teaspoon for pasta water and 2 teaspoon for salad)
1 lb bowtie pasta
1 cup cucumber chopped into quarters
1 cup bell pepper roughly chopped
1 cup red grapes halved
15 oz garbanzo beans drained & rinsed
2 Tablespoons pumpkin seeds
Optional: shredded parmesan cheese

Dressing

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
⅛ cup balsamic vinegar
1 Tablespoon honey
½ lemon juiced
¼ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Fill a large pot with water and 2 teaspoons of the salt. Bring to a boil and add pasta. Cook according to pasta package directions. Strain and rinse with cold water.
Meanwhile, you can prep your veggies and fruit. When pasta is done, combine pasta, cucumber, bell pepper, grapes and beans in a large bowl.
Combine all dressing ingredients in a Pyrex or small bowl. Whisk vigorously.
Immediately pour half the dressing over salad and toss. Taste test to see if it needs more. When you have the perfect amount of dressing, add the remaining 2 teaspoons salt and the pumpkin seeds. Toss again, and serve.

Notes

Save time. Bring pasta water to a boil faster by placing a lid on your pot.

Don't overcook. Prepare pasta al dente, which will prevent it from becoming mushy.

Cool pasta. Be sure to rinse the hot pasta in cold water before combining with other ingredients.

Taste test. Put the balsamic vinaigrette on the salad in increments, taste-testing along the way to get your perfect balance of flavor. You DO NOT have to use all the vinaigrette.

Make ahead. You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store in fridge until ready to serve. Allowing this pasta salad dish to marinate will only make it more flavorful!

My favorite! - Sprinkle some parmesan cheese and fresh herbs atop the salad. It takes it to next level!

Nutrition