Festive Bow Tie Pasta

A vibrant and colorful pasta dish featuring bow tie pasta tossed with roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon-garlic dressing—perfect for celebrations or special gatherings.

This pasta platter has become a festive favorite at our family dinners, bringing everyone together with its fresh flavors.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 500 g (1 lb) bow tie (farfalle) pasta
• Roasted Vegetables: 1 medium red bell pepper, diced, 1 medium yellow bell pepper, diced, 1 medium zucchini, chopped, 1 small red onion, sliced, 200 g (7 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Dressing: 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tsp honey or maple syrup, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• To Finish: 60 g (2 oz) crumbled feta cheese, 3 tbsp chopped fresh basil, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 30 g (1 oz) toasted pine nuts (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 2:

Toss the bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 25 minutes, stirring halfway, until vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.

Step 3:

Meanwhile, cook the bow tie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large serving bowl.

Step 4:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5:

Add the roasted vegetables to the pasta. Pour over the dressing and toss gently to combine.

Step 6:

Sprinkle with feta cheese, fresh basil, parsley, and toasted pine nuts if using. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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This recipe is perfect for special family gatherings, creating warm memories with every colorful serving.

Required Tools

Large pot, Baking sheet, Mixing bowls, Whisk, Serving bowl

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten) in pasta, milk in feta cheese, and pine nuts (tree nuts, optional). Check ingredient labels for possible traces of allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 390, Total Fat: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 55 g, Protein: 10 g per serving

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This festive bow tie pasta platter is sure to brighten your table and delight your guests every time.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I roast the vegetables for this dish?

Toss diced bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through until tender and caramelized.

→ What pasta type works best here?

Bow tie (farfalle) pasta is ideal as its shape holds the dressing and roasted vegetables well, making each bite flavorful and balanced.

→ Can I make a vegan variation?

Yes, omit the crumbled feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the dish vegan-friendly.

→ What is the best way to dress the pasta?

Whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss with pasta and roasted vegetables while still warm for optimal flavor absorption.

→ Are pine nuts necessary for this dish?

Toasted pine nuts are optional but recommended as they add a pleasant crunch and subtle nutty flavor that complements the creamy feta and fresh herbs.

→ Can this dish be served cold?

Yes, it can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions and meal preferences.