Flavorful Mediterranean Pesto Bowtie Pasta
This Mediterranean Pesto Bowtie Pasta is a fresh, vibrant, and wholesome dish featuring tender bowtie (farfalle) pasta tossed in aromatic basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese. It’s the perfect balance of tangy, herby, and cheesy flavors — a quick meal that feels gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes!
⏱ Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
250g (about 3 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Salt for boiling water
For the Mediterranean Pesto Sauce:
3 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
⅓ cup black or kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup red onion, finely sliced
1 small zucchini, thinly sliced or diced (optional)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional, for mild heat)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
Extra feta or grated parmesan
Fresh basil leaves
Toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente (about 10–11 minutes).
3. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Prepare the Mediterranean Pesto Sauce
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions and zucchini (if using) and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly soft.
3. Stir in cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until tomatoes begin to soften.
3. Combine Everything
1. Add cooked pasta to the skillet.
2. Stir in basil pesto, lemon juice, and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
3. Toss well until everything is evenly coated.
4. Remove from heat and stir in crumbled feta cheese.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
4. Serve
1. Plate the pasta and top with fresh basil, extra feta or parmesan, and toasted pine nuts.
2. Serve warm or enjoy chilled as a refreshing Mediterranean pasta salad.
Tips
For extra flavor, use roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts.
Want more protein? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
For creamier texture, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or cream cheese at the end.
To make it vegan, use vegan pesto and skip feta.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread or focaccia.
Greek salad or roasted vegetables.
Lemon sparkling water or iced tea for a light, fresh meal.
frequently asked questions FAQs
Q1: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! It can be served warm or chilled — perfect for meal prep or picnics.
Q2: What pesto works best?
Classic basil pesto is ideal, but you can also use sun-dried tomato pesto for a richer flavor.
Q3: Can I use another pasta shape?
Absolutely — penne, rotini, or fusilli work beautifully.
⚡ Nutritional Information
Calories: ~460 kcal
Protein: 14g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 6g