Save to Pinterest 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.
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.
Save to Pinterest Notes
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
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.
Save to Pinterest This festive bow tie pasta platter brings color and flavor to your table. Serve it fresh and enjoy the zesty lemon-garlic dressing.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best way to roast the vegetables?
Toss diced peppers, zucchini, 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 until tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- → Can I prepare the pasta ahead of time?
Yes, cook the bow tie pasta until al dente, drain, rinse under cold water, and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator and combine with vegetables and dressing shortly before serving.
- → What can I substitute for feta cheese?
For a dairy-free or vegan option, omit the feta or use plant-based cheese alternatives that offer a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor.
- → How can I add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions. Add them on top or mix in to complement the vegetables and pasta.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A light, crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the fresh herbs and zesty dressing nicely.