Nutrition Tip
Pasta often gets a bad rap, but it can indeed be a healthy choice. Made from flour, water, and salt, pasta is a time-honored staple of Italian cuisine dating back to the 4th century B.C. Nutritionally speaking, pasta provides complex carbohydrates and fiber. When paired with fresh veggies like in this bow tie pasta salad recipe, pasta of all shapes and sizes can be a nourishing addition to a balanced diet.
What to Serve with Pasta Salad
Since pasta salad boasts complex carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats, complementing it with a protein source creates a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:
- Burgers
- Sausages
- Chicken
- Steak
- Shrimp
- Salmon
- Tuna
- Tofu
- Hard-Boiled Eggs
For culinary inspiration, this Italian bow tie pasta salad pairs wonderfully with the mentioned protein options. Although often served as a side dish, this pasta salad also shines as a vegetarian main course, especially on hot summer days when you crave pasta without heating up the kitchen. Furthermore, it stores excellently in the fridge, making it a superb make-ahead meal for easy lunches or dinners.
FAQs
What are bow tie pastas called?
Bow tie pastas are referred to as farfalle. Although “farfalle” means butterfly in Italian, these pasta shapes are commonly known as bow tie pasta due to their distinctive appearance.
How long do you cook bow tie pasta?
To achieve authentic al dente pasta, cook bow tie pasta for 11-13 minutes. For this recipe, 11 minutes is recommended.
