Bowtie Pasta Salad with Grapes

❤️ Why We Love This Recipe

1. It serves up a huge burst of flavors – The combination of juicy grape tomatoes, green grapes, and aromatic basil brings a burst of flavor to every bite.
2. It’s quick and easy – With simple ingredients and instructions, this recipe is a breeze to make, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
3. It’s versatile – This pasta salad can be served as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a main course by adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
4. Eye-catching presentation – The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad a visual delight, perfect for gatherings and potlucks.

🛒 Ingredient Notes

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• Bow tie pasta – Fun pasta shapes make ordinary recipes more interesting, but feel free to use any short-cut pasta you have on hand. Macaroni, fusilli, and penne all work well for this recipe.
• Grape tomatoes – You can, of course, use cherry tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes in a variety of colors make a pretty presentation.
• Green grapes – Be sure to use ripe, sweet grapes!
• Fresh basil – Use fresh if possible and cut it finely.
• Red wine vinegar – Essential for the vinaigrette dressing.
• Shallot – I prefer shallots but you can certainly substitute green onion or finely diced red onion.
• Capers – Capers add a piquancy that can’t easily be substituted. If you don’t care for them, simply omit them.
• Dijon mustard – My favorite is always Maille. It has a much milder, more mellow flavor than some other brands.
• Feta cheese – I prefer to purchase a block of feta and crumble it myself.

🍲 Equipment You’ll Find Useful

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

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🥄 How to Make Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Grapes

1. It couldn’t be much simpler than this. Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
2. Drain it well and add it in a big bowl with the grape tomatoes, green grapes, and basil.
3. Make the vinaigrette in a small bowl, pour it over the pasta mixture and toss everything together. Add a little feta, gently toss it all together and that’s it!
4. Allow the flavors to meld together for at least 15 minutes before serving. You can also refrigerate the salad for a couple of hours to let the flavors intensify. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

🔀 Variations

1. For added protein, include grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or chickpeas.
2. Give it a nutty crunch by including a few toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts.
3. Experiment with different herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or mint to give the salad a unique twist.
4. Add other fresh vegetables such as sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions to customize the salad to your liking.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood.
• Pack it for a picnic or a summer potluck gathering.
• Pair with a warm baguette or garlic bread for a satisfying meal on its own.

🍚 Storage Information

Store in a covered container in the refrigerator for three to four days.

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