Save 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.
I have served this festive bow tie pasta platter at many parties and it always impresses guests with its fresh flavors and attractive presentation.
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 This recipe always brings my family together during festive occasions, sparking lively conversations and smiles.
Notes
For a vegan version, omit feta or use a plant-based alternative. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Pair with a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
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 This festive pasta platter is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser perfect for any special celebration.
Recipe Guide
- → What pasta type is featured?
Bow tie (farfalle) pasta provides the ideal shape, holding the dressing and roasted vegetables well.
- → How are the vegetables prepared?
Bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes are tossed with olive oil and herbs, then roasted until tender and caramelized.
- → What ingredients create the dressing?
The dressing combines extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.
- → What optional toppings enhance flavor and texture?
Crumbled feta cheese, fresh basil, parsley, and toasted pine nuts add layers of taste and crunch to the dish.
- → What are good beverage pairings?
Light white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complement the dish’s fresh and zesty profile.