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Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Delicious Bow Tie Pasta Salad: A Make-Ahead Delight!

Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer gatherings and customizable to fit any taste.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Bow Tie Pasta Essential base providing structure; substitute with rotini for a fun twist.
  • 10 oz Cheddar Cheese Cut into cubes; swap for mozzarella for a milder taste.
  • 1 1/4 cup Ham Diced; consider chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
  • 1/2 Onion Minced; use green onions for a softer touch.
  • 1/2 cup Peas Contributes a pop of sweetness; frozen peas work perfectly here.
  • 1/2 cup Bell Pepper Finely chopped; try cucumbers as a crunchy substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped; adds a splash of freshness to the dish.
For the Dressing
  • 1 1/4 cups Mayonnaise Acts as the creamy dressing base; use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • 3 tbsp Relish Introduces a sweet-tangy flavor; diced pickles can stand in when needed.
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Sugar Balances the dressing's acidity; skip if you prefer less sweetness.
  • 1 1/2 tsp Mustard Enhances flavor complexity; Dijon can be a perfect substitute.
  • 1 tbsp Vinegar Provides necessary acidity; apple cider vinegar is a great alternative.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper Adds a hint of spice to the mix.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • pot
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, relish, sugar, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  2. Dice ham and cheddar cheese into bite-sized cubes. Mince onion, finely chop bell pepper, and chop parsley.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bow tie pasta and cook for 9 to 11 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  4. In the bowl with the dressing, add cooled pasta, diced ham, cheese, minced onion, peas, chopped bell pepper, and parsley. Gently toss until well-coated.
  5. Transfer salad to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add extra mayonnaise if the salad dries out.

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