Dinner

Easy Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad Recipe

Name: Easy Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz dry bow tie pasta; 8 oz mozzarella cheese pearls; 2 oz salami, chopped; 1/2 cup chopped English cucumber; 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained; 7 oz jar roasted red pepper, chopped; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; 1/2 red onion, diced; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 lemon, juiced; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried basil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

ByMariam Harutyunyan January 16, 2026January 16, 2026

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Introduction

This Easy Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for warm days or potlucks. Packed with fresh veggies, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella, it’s a satisfying staple that’s simple to prepare and sure to please everyone.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a colorful pasta salad consisting of three main layers: the first layer is light cream-colored bowtie pasta with a smooth texture, spread throughout the bowl; the second layer includes small white mozzarella balls scattered evenly, along with chopped red tomatoes and thin slices of purple onion adding bright pops of color; the third layer contains chopped dark green basil leaves and small pieces of green cucumber, all mixed with small bits of pink ham. The ingredients are coated lightly with oil and speckled with black pepper. A silver spoon is visible at the bottom, partially covered by the salad. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz dry pasta
8 oz mozzarella cheese pearls

2 oz salami, chopped
1/2 cup chopped English cucumber

14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
7 oz jar roasted red pepper, chopped

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 red onion, diced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/2 lemon, juiced
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
Salt

Black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, mozzarella cheese pearls, chopped salami, cucumber, drained diced tomatoes, roasted red pepper, fresh basil, and diced red onion.

Step 3: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil until well blended.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: For best flavor, refrigerate the pasta salad for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving, though it can be served immediately if preferred.

Step 6: Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use fresh cherry tomatoes instead of canned for a sweeter taste and firmer texture.
Swap salami with sliced pepperoni or cooked Italian sausage for a different meat option.

Add olives or artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this salad suitable for gluten sensitivities.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again. If it thickens or becomes dry, add a little olive oil or lemon juice to refresh it. This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with a colorful pasta salad. The bottom layer consists of pale yellow bowtie pasta scattered evenly. Mixed throughout are small white mozzarella balls with a smooth texture. Bright red diced tomatoes and red onion pieces add a fresh and juicy appearance, while slices of green cucumbers add contrast. Thin strips of fresh green basil leaves are spread across the dish. The salad appears lightly coated with a glossy dressing and sprinkled with black pepper for texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with part of a metal rack visible below. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after the flavors meld for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. You can prepare it a few hours or even the day before serving.

What if I don’t have mozzarella pearls?

You can substitute with small mozzarella cubes or shredded mozzarella cheese. Just be sure to adjust the size to match the other ingredients for even mixing.