Bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle, is a fun and versatile ingredient that can transform any meal into a delicious and satisfying experience. Whether you’re looking for a light salad for summer or a hearty Italian-inspired dish for dinner, bow tie pasta can be customized to suit a variety of tastes. In this post, we’ll cover some of the best bow tie pasta recipes, incorporating key ingredients like garlic, tomatoes, sausage, and more. Let’s dive in!
What Is Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle)?
Bow tie pasta, known as farfalle in Italian, is shaped like tiny bow ties or butterflies. Its unique shape allows it to hold sauces well, making it ideal for creamy, tomato-based, or pesto sauces. Bow tie pasta Recipes can be used in everything from salads to main dishes, making it a pantry staple for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Bow tie pasta recipes
Cooking Bow Tie Pasta: The Basics
Before diving into the recipes, let’s go over some cooking basics for bow tie pasta:
Ingredients:
- 1 box of bow tie pasta (16 ounces)
- 4-6 quarts of water
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add the salt, and bring it to a rapid boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the bow tie pasta to the boiling water and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions (usually about 10-12 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain and Reserve: Drain the pasta but reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use in sauces.
- Toss with Oil: Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the pasta to prevent it from sticking while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Classic Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan
This simple yet delicious meal is ideal for hectic weeknights. The combination of garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and savory sauce that clings to the bow tie pasta beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces bow tie pasta
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the bow tie pasta as directed above.
- Heat Olive Oil: In a spacious skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat before adding the garlic. Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté it until it becomes aromatic, which should take approximately 1 to 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Toss Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic. Toss to coat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and reserved pasta water. Mix until creamy.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.
Creamy Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli
This creamy dish is a comforting option that combines tender chicken, broccoli, and a luscious cream sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even meal prepping for the week.
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces bow tie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
- Cook Pasta: Follow the basic cooking directions for bow tie pasta.
- Prepare Broccoli: Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to ice water to keep it vibrant green. Set aside.
- Make Cream Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, cooking until thickened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
- Combine Chicken and Broccoli: Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Toss and Serve: Toss the cooked bow tie pasta with the creamy chicken and broccoli sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot with additional Parmesan.
Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella
This fresh and zesty bow tie pasta salad is a perfect side dish for summer barbecues or light lunches. The combination of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and a simple balsamic dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces bow tie pasta
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cubed
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta as directed, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Toss Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with the balsamic dressing and toss to coat.
- Serve Cold: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with extra basil and serve cold.
Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Tomato Sauce
This hearty and flavorful dish is a classic Italian-inspired recipe that features spicy Italian sausage, tomatoes, and a rich sauce that clings perfectly to the bow tie pasta.
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces bow tie pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Directions:
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta as directed, then drain and set aside.
- In a spacious skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Incorporate the sausage into the pan and sauté until it is browned, ensuring to crumble it into smaller fragments.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Simmer Tomato Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook gently for 15 to 20 minutes to enable the flavors to enhance.
- Toss and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat and serve with fresh basil and grated Parmesan.
Customizing Bow Tie Pasta Recipes
One of the best things about bow tie pasta recipes is their versatility. Below are several methods to personalize your meal.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a healthier dish.
- Switch Proteins: Use chicken, shrimp, ground beef, or even tofu to suit your dietary preferences.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try pesto, Alfredo, or a zesty lemon-basil sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Cheesy: Toss in shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or crumbled feta for a cheesy twist.
- Go Gluten-Free: Swap traditional bow tie pasta for a gluten-free version.
Tips for Making the Perfect Bow Tie Pasta Recipes
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Bow tie pasta holds its shape best when cooked al dente. Pasta that is overcooked may become soft and lose its desirable texture.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some of the pasta water to help loosen up sauces and add starch for a creamier consistency.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic, herbs, and vegetables to enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Season Well: Don’t be afraid to season your dishes with salt, pepper, and herbs to bring out the best flavors.
Conclusion: Delicious Bow Tie Pasta Recipes for Every Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, bow tie pasta is a versatile and delicious choice. From creamy chicken and broccoli to zesty pasta salads, these bow tie pasta recipes will become a staple in your kitchen. Experiment with ingredients, customize the dishes to your taste, and enjoy the rich flavors of Italian-inspired cuisine right at home!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bow Tie Pasta Recipes
Q: Can I use bow tie pasta for baked dishes?
A: Yes, bow tie pasta works well in baked pasta dishes like casseroles or lasagna-style bakes. It holds its shape and absorbs sauces perfectly.
Q: What is the best sauce for bow tie pasta?
A: Bow tie pasta pairs well with a variety of sauces, including creamy Alfredo, tomato-based sauces, pesto, and light olive oil-based sauces.
Q: How long does cooked bow tie pasta last?
A: Cooked pasta can last 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Ensure that it is kept in an airtight container to preserve its freshness.
