Bow Ties With Veggies
Colorful bow ties paired with fresh vegetables and savory Italian dressing create a quick, flavorful vegetarian dish perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown the chopped yellow squash, zucchini, tomato, red onion, green pepper, and red pepper in butter.
- Add prepared Italian dressing to the vegetables and simmer until heated through.
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the cooked bow ties and add to the vegetable mixture, tossing to combine.
- Serve the veggie and pasta mixture topped with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the vegetable mixture. You can substitute the bow tie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. To enhance the dish's creaminess, try adding a splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese to the veggies. This recipe is also great for using up leftover vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bow ties with veggies as a standalone dish or pair it with a simple green salad for a light meal. This dish goes well with garlic bread or a side of grilled chicken for added protein. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside a hearty vegetable soup or a fresh Caprese salad to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the pasta to prevent it from drying out. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bow Ties With Veggies contains roughly 1226 calories, with 7g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 686mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. You can use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they are cooked but still retain some crunch.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the bow tie pasta for a gluten-free pasta alternative. There are many options available, including chickpea or brown rice pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking time.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetable mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, cook the pasta and mix it with the pre-prepared veggies. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or quick weeknight dinners!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).