Balsamic Bowties: A Flavorful & Colorful Pasta Dish for Any Occasion
Balsamic Bowties are an easy-to-make and delicious pasta dish perfect for parties, lunch, or as a side. With a savory mix of farfalle pasta, fresh mozzarella, feta cheese, spinach, and tomatoes, all dressed in balsamic vinegar and olive oil, this dish bursts with flavor. It’s versatile enough to be served warm or cold, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks. This recipe can serve 6 to 8 people and keeps well in the fridge, just add a splash of olive oil or vinegar before serving for a fresh taste!
The Perfect Make-Ahead Pasta Dish
What makes Balsamic Bowties so great is how easily it comes together and how flexible it is. The combination of fresh ingredients and a tangy dressing means it can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to marinate and meld. The recipe is designed to serve 6 to 8 people, making it an ideal dish for both small and larger gatherings. Plus, it holds up well in the fridge for days, so you can easily prepare it ahead of time for busy workweeks.
Simple Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
The ingredients for Balsamic Bowties are simple, fresh, and packed with flavor. The farfalle pasta, also known as bowtie pasta, forms the base of the dish. It’s paired with mozzarella and feta cheese for a delightful combination of creaminess and tang. Fresh spinach and basil add color and earthiness, while tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness and freshness. Olive oil and balsamic vinegar, both key components, provide the necessary depth and richness to the dish.
How to Make Balsamic Bowties
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the farfalle pasta until it’s al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, crumble the feta cheese, cube the mozzarella, and slice the tomatoes in halves. Also, chop the spinach and basil for added flavor.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the cheeses, spinach, basil, and tomatoes.
- Dress and Season: Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and then gently toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: The dish can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference. It’s versatile enough for any season or occasion.
Recipe Notes: Keep It Fresh
One of the best things about Balsamic Bowties is how versatile it is. If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! It keeps in the fridge for several days. Just give it a quick mix with a little extra oil or vinegar if needed, and it’s as good as new.
Your Turn!
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, prepping a quick and satisfying lunch, or needing a make-ahead side dish, Balsamic Bowties is sure to impress. With fresh ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Try it for your next meal and see why this simple pasta recipe is a family favorite!
This Recipe is in my Cookbook, From Scratch!
I’m excited to share my cookbook with you, created with sustainability and flavor in mind! From Scratch is packed with delicious, eco-conscious recipes designed to nourish both you and the planet. Every dish is carefully crafted to use fresh, local ingredients, and focuses on minimizing waste while maximizing taste.
From wholesome breakfasts to hearty dinners, my cookbook offers a variety of plant-based meals that are easy to prepare and full of nutrients. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or simply enjoy meals that are better for you and the Earth, this cookbook is your guide to eating in a way that’s both kind to the planet and satisfying to your taste buds. You can grab your copy here:
Check Out The Pantry Labels
In 2024, I released a set of Pantry Labels with recipes that are dishwasher-safe and fit the lids of mason jars perfectly.
Each labels has the recipe to refill the dry mix jar, as well as the recipe to make the item if applicable.
Balsamic Bowties
Ingredients
- 1 pound farfalle pasta
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 8 ounces feta cheese block
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese ball
- 3 ounces baby spinach
- ¼ cup fresh chopped basil
- 1 pint grape tomatoes or medley tomatoes
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add farfalle pasta to boiling water and cook until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the remaining ingredients. Crumble your block of feta cheese. Cube the fresh mozzarella cheese into small ¼-inch chunks.
- Wash and dry the tomatoes, baby spinach and basil. Chop the basil leaves into smaller pieces. Slice the tomatoes in halves.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, cheeses, spinach, basil and tomatoes.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the ingredients. Gently toss everything together until it is evenly coated with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Taste the pasta dish and adjust as needed with salt and pepper.
Notes
This is a great pasta to have in the fridge for when you have a busy week—it keeps all week long. You may need to add a splash of oil or balsamic vinegar and mix it up before you’re ready to eat it!
