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 was the highlight of our festive gathering and everyone asked for seconds

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

Preheat Oven:

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F)

Roast Vegetables:

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

Cook Pasta:

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

Prepare Dressing:

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

Combine:

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

Finish:

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

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Our family enjoys this dish at every special gathering, making it a cherished tradition

Notes

Pair with a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the flavors

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

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This dish brings both color and taste to your table making celebrations extra special

Recipe FAQ

→ What type of pasta is used in this dish?

Bow tie (farfalle) pasta is used for its shape which holds the roasted vegetables and dressing well.

→ How are the vegetables prepared?

The bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes are tossed in olive oil with Italian herbs, then roasted until tender and caramelized.

→ What gives the dressing its zesty flavor?

A combination of freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey creates a bright, tangy dressing.

→ Can this dish be served cold or warm?

It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for different serving occasions.

→ Are there any suggested additions for extra protein?

Grilled chicken or shrimp can be added to increase the protein content.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for the cheese?

Yes, omit the feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative to make it vegan.