Mary KellyBefore diving into the delightful world of Jimmy John’s pesto bowtie pasta salad, let me share a couple of pairing options. This dish is wonderfully versatile, and it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or even a light, crusty baguette. Think of it as the best of both worlds: a vibrant, refreshing salad that finds balance with hearty proteins or crusty carbs.
When enjoying this cool and creamy pasta creation, consider a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea. Both beverages can elevate the dining experience.
Now, let’s unpack why this recipe is a fantastic choice for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Every summer inevitably brings about a craving for something refreshing yet substantial. The kind of dish that doesn’t leave you feeling weighed down after each bite. That’s where my love for Jimmy John’s pesto bowtie pasta salad comes into play. This pasta salad hits all the right notes—it’s creamy, zesty, and packs a nutritional punch thanks to the fresh veggies.
You know, it’s almost nostalgic. Imagine warm evenings with the smell of grilled foods wafting through the air, laughter bouncing around a patio, and then that beautiful dish gliding to the table. It’s visually stunning with vibrant greens and reds, and it tastes even better. I’ve whipped this up countless times, and I promise you, it disappears from the serving dish every single time.
How I Use the Ingredients in This Recipe
When I gather the ingredients for this pasta salad, I feel like a painter preparing for a masterpiece. Each ingredient has its own personality, and they create a delicious symphony when combined.
The bowtie pasta serves as the foundation—a little fancy, a little fun. Extra virgin olive oil? It brings a smooth richness. Creamy mayonnaise gives that desired luscious texture, while the store-bought pesto saves time and delivers an herbal zestiness that can’t be beat.
Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients, and the grape tomatoes offer a juicy burst in every forkful. Sun-dried tomatoes contribute a concentrated savoriness, while olives and toasted pine nuts add layers of flavor and crunch.
In practice, I find joy in the simple act of combining these ingredients. Each time, I think, “Okay, let’s make it a little different today,” and it always turns out deliciously.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to pull this off:
- 12 oz. bowtie pasta
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup creamy mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup store-bought basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 3/4 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh spinach
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
How to Make Jimmy John’s Pesto Bowtie Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, add in your 12 oz. of bowtie pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, which means just firm enough to hold its shape and a slight chew. Don’t overcook; nobody wants mushy pasta!
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the pasta is cooking, let’s throw together that luscious dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup basil pesto. If you find it too thick, add in the 2 tablespoons of water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This part should feel silky and rich, an experience to savor as you blend the ingredients!
Step 3: Combine Everything
Drain the cooked pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. You want to stop the cooking process so you have perfectly cooked noodles. Allow it to drain well. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, 1 cup spinach, and the grape tomatoes. Gently fold in the prepared dressing using a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring every noodle is beautifully coated.
Step 4: Add More Flavor
Now for the finishing touches! Toss in the 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts, the sun-dried tomatoes, and the black olives. Fold everything carefully so those nuts and tomatoes don’t get crushed but are nicely distributed throughout.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes, but if you can wait till the next day, the flavors meld even better overnight.
Recipe Notes
- Bowtie Pasta: This shape is perfect for holding the dressing, but you can substitute it with fusilli or rotini if you prefer.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This adds heart-healthy fats and a nice flavor depth. Always opt for high-quality oil that you would enjoy in salads.
- Creamy Mayonnaise: It enhances the texture of the dish. If you’re in the mood for lighter options, Greek yogurt is a great alternative, providing creaminess with added protein.
- Basil Pesto: I recommend a good store-bought brand to keep things simple, but you could always make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly shredded will create that beautiful melt-in-your-mouth quality versus the pre-shredded kind that tends to dry out.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand. Bell peppers, cucumbers, or even avocados can work wonders in this salad.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Packed: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost. This will turn the salad into a full meal.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy punch.
- Cheese Lovers: Consider feta or mozzarella pearls for a different cheese experience.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta. Trust me, no one will know the difference!
Jimmy John’s Pesto Bowtie Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, add in your 12 oz. of bowtie pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, which means just firm enough to hold its shape and a slight chew. Don’t overcook; nobody wants mushy pasta!
- While the pasta is cooking, let’s throw together that luscious dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup basil pesto. If you find it too thick, add in the 2 tablespoons of water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This part should feel silky and rich, an experience to savor as you blend the ingredients!
- Drain the cooked pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. You want to stop the cooking process so you have perfectly cooked noodles. Allow it to drain well. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, 1 cup spinach, and the grape tomatoes. Gently fold in the prepared dressing using a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring every noodle is beautifully coated.
- Now for the finishing touches! Toss in the 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts, the sun-dried tomatoes, and the black olives. Fold everything carefully so those nuts and tomatoes don’t get crushed but are nicely distributed throughout.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes, but if you can wait till the next day, the flavors meld even better overnight.
Nutrition
Notes
- Bowtie Pasta: This shape is perfect for holding the dressing, but you can substitute it with fusilli or rotini if you prefer.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This adds heart-healthy fats and a nice flavor depth. Always opt for high-quality oil that you would enjoy in salads.
- Creamy Mayonnaise: It enhances the texture of the dish. If you’re in the mood for lighter options, Greek yogurt is a great alternative, providing creaminess with added protein.
- Basil Pesto: I recommend a good store-bought brand to keep things simple, but you could always make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly shredded will create that beautiful melt-in-your-mouth quality versus the pre-shredded kind that tends to dry out.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand. Bell peppers, cucumbers, or even avocados can work wonders in this salad.
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Conclusion
This Jimmy John’s pesto bowtie pasta salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, and it is bound to be a hit at your next summer gathering. The recipe is straightforward, allowing for flexibility depending on your tastes and what you have in your pantry. I love how easy it is to prepare; it fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle while still allowing for creativity.
So while the sun shines bright and grills are fired up, why not bring this pasta salad to the table? Watching your guests enjoy every forkful will only add to your satisfaction. Gather your ingredients, dive into the kitchen, and create something delightful. Enjoy!
