15 Best Bow Tie Pasta Recipes To Try Today

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Why Bow Tie Pasta Recipes Shine

Hello, pasta lovers! At Mangoes and Palm Trees, the Mayerhoffer family—Oliver, Natalia, and Victor—presents our Bow Tie Pasta Recipes, inspired by global cuisines from Italy to Greece, discovered during our travels across 50+ countries. In 2010–2014 Italy, Oliver mastered creamy sauces for dishes like Garlic-Butter Spinach Pasta, while Natalia’s Siberian roots enriched hearty recipes like Chicken Alfredo. Victor, our 8-year-old taste tester, gave his seal of approval to Pasta Chips in Vietnam (2022–present). These farfalle dishes blend vibrant flavors with family-friendly ease, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Explore more at our Recipes Collection. (Bon Appétit)

Bow Tie Pasta Recipes - Global & Flavorful

A vibrant array of bow tie pasta dishes!


Why Bow Tie Pasta is a Kitchen Essential

Bow tie pasta, or farfalle, meaning “butterflies” in Italian, is loved for its playful shape and ability to hold sauces, from creamy Alfredo to tangy Mediterranean dressings. Its chewy texture pairs with vegetables, meats, or herbs, making it a global favorite, as discovered in Italian trattorias (2010–2014) and Greek markets (2014–2019). At Mangoes and Palm Trees, we’ve crafted these recipes with international flair for healthy, budget-friendly meals. (USDA)

Health Benefits

Farfalle, especially when paired with vegetables and lean proteins, offers fiber and nutrients, supporting balanced diets, a lesson from Natalia’s hearty Siberian cooking (2013–2016).


15 Best Bow Tie Pasta Recipes

Italian Garlic-Butter Spinach and Pasta

A creamy, garlicky pasta inspired by Italian trattorias (2010–2014).

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Fresh spinach4 cups
Butter2 tbsp
Garlic, minced3 cloves
Cream cheese2 oz
Milk½ cup
Parmesan cheese, grated¼ cup
Salt1 tsp
Black pepper½ tsp
Parsley, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Cook bow tie pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, about 10 minutes; drain.
  2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat; sauté garlic for 1 minute.
  3. Add spinach; cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper; cook until smooth, about 3 minutes.
  5. Toss with pasta and Parmesan; garnish with parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 350 kcal, 12g protein, 15g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 600mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Healthy Meal Plans. (Diethood)

American Creamy Bow Tie Pasta with Bacon

Rich, savory pasta with a bacon-Parmesan sauce, inspired by American diners.

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Bacon6 slices
Heavy cream1 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated½ cup
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Olive oil1 tbsp
Salt1 tsp
Black pepper½ tsp
Parsley, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes; drain.
  2. In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes; crumble and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, heat olive oil; sauté garlic for 1 minute.
  4. Add cream, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Toss with pasta, bacon, and Parmesan; garnish with parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 450 kcal, 15g protein, 25g fat, 40g carbs, 2g fiber, 800mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Ground Sausage Recipes. (Serious Eats)

American One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta

Hearty one-pot dish with creamy garlic sauce, a family favorite.

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Chicken breast, diced1 lb
Bell peppers, diced1 cup
Onion, diced½ cup
Garlic, minced3 cloves
Heavy cream1 cup
Chicken broth2 cups
Butter1 tbsp
Salt1 tsp
Parmesan cheese, grated¼ cup

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, melt butter; cook chicken with salt for 5 minutes.
  2. Add onion and bell peppers; cook for 3 minutes.
  3. Sauté garlic for 1 minute.
  4. Add broth, cream, and pasta; simmer for 20 minutes until tender.
  5. Sprinkle with Parmesan; serve.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 450 kcal, 30g protein, 20g fat, 40g carbs, 3g fiber, 700mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Middle Eastern Chicken Recipes.

Italian Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Broccolini

Robust one-pot dish with creamy tomato sauce, inspired by Italy (2010–2014).

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Italian sausage, crumbled1 lb
Broccolini, chopped2 cups
Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped¼ cup
Heavy cream½ cup
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Olive oil1 tbsp
Chili flakes½ tsp
Parmesan cheese, grated¼ cup
Salt1 tsp

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet; cook sausage, garlic, and chili flakes for 5 minutes.
  2. Add broccolini, sun-dried tomatoes, and salt; cook for 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in cream and cooked pasta; simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle with Parmesan; serve.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 450 kcal, 20g protein, 25g fat, 40g carbs, 3g fiber, 800mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Ground Sausage Recipes. (Bon Appétit)

American Bacon and Brussels Sprouts with Pasta

Crunchy pasta with savory bacon, a U.S. comfort dish.

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Bacon6 slices
Brussels sprouts, halved2 cups
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Olive oil1 tbsp
Parmesan cheese, grated¼ cup
Salt1 tsp
Black pepper½ tsp
Parsley, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes; drain.
  2. Cook bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes; crumble and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, heat olive oil; cook Brussels sprouts, garlic, salt, and pepper for 5 minutes.
  4. Toss with pasta, bacon, and Parmesan; garnish with parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 400 kcal, 15g protein, 20g fat, 45g carbs, 4g fiber, 700mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Salads.

Italian Farfalle with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onions

Creamy, meatless pasta from Italy (2010–2014).

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Spinach4 cups
Mushrooms, sliced1 cup
Onion, sliced1 medium
Heavy cream½ cup
Parmesan cheese, grated¼ cup
Olive oil1 tbsp
Salt1 tsp
Black pepper½ tsp
Parsley, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes; drain.
  2. Heat olive oil; caramelize onion over low heat for 15 minutes.
  3. Add mushrooms; cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in spinach, salt, and pepper; cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  5. Add cream and Parmesan; toss with pasta and garnish with parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 350 kcal, 12g protein, 15g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 600mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Mexican Soup Recipes. (Pinch of Yum)

Italian Pasta Chips

Crispy air-fried pasta snacks, a hit in Vietnam (2022–present).

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Olive oil2 tbsp
Parmesan cheese, grated¼ cup
Dried oregano1 tsp
Garlic powder1 tsp
Salt½ tsp
Black pepper¼ tsp
Parsley, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes; drain and pat dry.
  2. Toss with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway.
  4. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley; serve.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 250 kcal, 8g protein, 10g fat, 35g carbs, 2g fiber, 500mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Keto Air Fryer Recipes.

Mediterranean Lemon Herb Pasta Salad with Marinated Chickpeas

Fresh, zesty salad inspired by Greece (2014–2019).

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Chickpeas, drained1 can (15 oz)
Lemon juice¼ cup
Olive oil¼ cup
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Fresh parsley, chopped2 tbsp
Parmesan cheese, grated¼ cup
Salt1 tsp
Black pepper½ tsp

Instructions

  1. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes; drain and cool.
  2. Marinate chickpeas with 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
  3. Toss pasta with chickpeas, remaining lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, and Parmesan.
  4. Serve chilled.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 350 kcal, 12g protein, 15g fat, 45g carbs, 5g fiber, 600mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Chickpea Flour Recipes. (Pinch of Yum)

American Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Tangy, creamy salad with pickles, a U.S. favorite.

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Dill pickles, diced1 cup
Cheddar cheese, cubed½ cup
Red cabbage, shredded1 cup
Lettuce, chopped1 cup
Sour cream¼ cup
Mayonnaise¼ cup
Garlic powder½ tsp
Salt½ tsp
Dill, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes; drain and cool.
  2. Mix sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and salt for dressing.
  3. Toss pasta with pickles, cheddar, cabbage, lettuce, and dressing.
  4. Garnish with dill; serve chilled.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 350 kcal, 10g protein, 15g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 700mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Salsa Fresca.

Greek 20-Minute Pasta Salad

Light, feta-tzatziki salad from Greece (2014–2019).

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Cherry tomatoes, halved1 cup
Cucumber, diced1 cup
Feta cheese, crumbled½ cup
Tzatziki¼ cup
Red onion, sliced¼ cup
Olives, sliced¼ cup
Olive oil2 tbsp
Red wine vinegar2 tbsp
Parsley, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes; drain and cool.
  2. Mix olive oil, red wine vinegar, and tzatziki for dressing.
  3. Toss pasta with tomatoes, cucumber, feta, onion, olives, and dressing.
  4. Garnish with parsley; serve chilled.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 350 kcal, 10g protein, 15g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 600mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Ahi Poke.

Italian Date Night Mushroom Pasta with Goat Cheese

Romantic, creamy pasta from Italy (2010–2014).

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Mushrooms, sliced1 cup
Spinach2 cups
Goat cheese, crumbled½ cup
Heavy cream½ cup
White wine¼ cup
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Olive oil1 tbsp
Salt1 tsp
Parsley, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes; drain.
  2. Heat olive oil; cook garlic and mushrooms for 5 minutes.
  3. Add white wine; simmer for 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in cream, spinach, and goat cheese; cook for 3 minutes.
  5. Toss with pasta; garnish with parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 400 kcal, 12g protein, 20g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 700mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Mexican Soup Recipes. (Pinch of Yum)

Italian Quick Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken, Spinach, and Tomatoes

Flavorful pasta with light tomato sauce, a family hit.

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Chicken breast, diced1 lb
Cherry tomatoes, halved1 cup
Spinach2 cups
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Olive oil1 tbsp
Parmesan cheese, grated¼ cup
Salt1 tsp
Black pepper½ tsp
Basil, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil; cook chicken with salt and pepper for 5 minutes; rest for 10 minutes.
  2. In the same skillet, cook garlic and tomatoes for 3 minutes.
  3. Add spinach; cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  4. Toss with cooked pasta and Parmesan; garnish with basil.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 400 kcal, 30g protein, 10g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 600mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Guajillo Chili Beef Tacos.

American Bow Tie Chicken Alfredo

Classic creamy pasta with broccoli and chicken, a U.S. comfort dish.

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Chicken breast, diced1 lb
Broccoli florets2 cups
Heavy cream1 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated½ cup
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Butter2 tbsp
White wine¼ cup
Salt1 tsp
Parsley, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes; drain.
  2. Melt butter; cook chicken with salt for 5 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and broccoli; cook for 3 minutes.
  4. Stir in white wine and cream; simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Toss with pasta and Parmesan; garnish with parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 450 kcal, 30g protein, 20g fat, 40g carbs, 3g fiber, 700mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Sauce Recipes. (Bon Appétit)

Italian One-Pot Caprese Pasta

Light, fresh pasta with tomato-basil sauce, inspired by Italy (2010–2014).

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Cherry tomatoes, halved2 cups
Fresh mozzarella, diced1 cup
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Fresh basil, chopped¼ cup
Olive oil2 tbsp
Chicken broth2 cups
Salt1 tsp
Black pepper½ tsp
Basil, chopped1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot; cook garlic for 1 minute.
  2. Add tomatoes, salt, and pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in broth and pasta; simmer for 12-15 minutes until tender.
  4. Add basil and mozzarella; stir until melted.
  5. Garnish with basil; serve.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 350 kcal, 15g protein, 15g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 600mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Mango Cheesecake Spring Rolls. (Diethood)

Italian Chicken Bruschetta Pasta

Vibrant pasta with balsamic-tomato glaze, a family favorite.

IngredientQuantity
Bow tie pasta8 oz
Chicken breast, diced1 lb
Cherry tomatoes, halved1 cup
Balsamic glaze¼ cup
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Fresh basil, chopped¼ cup
Olive oil1 tbsp
Salt1 tsp
Parmesan cheese, grated¼ cup
Black pepper½ tsp

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil; cook chicken with salt and pepper for 5 minutes; rest for 10 minutes.
  2. In the same skillet, cook garlic and tomatoes for 3 minutes.
  3. Add balsamic glaze and basil; simmer for 2 minutes.
  4. Toss with cooked pasta and chicken; sprinkle with Parmesan.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (per serving): 400 kcal, 30g protein, 10g fat, 50g carbs, 3g fiber, 600mg sodium

Tip: Pair with Jalapeño Recipes. (Diethood)


Tips for Perfect Bow Tie Pasta

  • Select Quality Pasta: Choose durum wheat farfalle for texture, learned in Italy (2010–2014). (Serious Eats)
  • Enhance Flavor: Pair with bold ingredients like feta or balsamic glaze, inspired by Natalia’s Siberian cooking.
  • Cook Al Dente: Boil 10-12 minutes, rinse for salads, a tip from Victor’s Vietnam tests.
  • Simplify Cleanup: Use one-pot methods, as practiced in our family kitchen.

Tip: Explore Global Cooking Techniques.


🥭🌴 Expert Answers by Mangoes and Palm Trees

Frequently Asked Questions

Insights from 15+ years in hospitality and 50+ countries explored, sharing family-tested tips for Bow Tie Pasta Recipes.

🍝 Culinary Expertise

Its playful shape and sauce-holding ability make it a family favorite across cuisines, learned in Italy.

🍝 Culinary Expertise

Yes, but farfalle’s shape is ideal for sauces; penne may alter texture, tested in Vietnam.

🍝 Culinary Expertise

Boil in salted water, stir occasionally, rinse for salads, a tip from our Siberian kitchen.

🍝 Culinary Expertise

Many are vegetarian or adaptable with gluten-free pasta, as seen in our Vegetarian Recipes.

🍝 Culinary Expertise

Swap dairy for vegan cheese or oil, as in our Mediterranean salad, inspired by Greece.

🍝 Culinary Expertise

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days, a Siberian preservation tip.

🍝 Culinary Expertise

Creamy or light tomato sauces work best, as learned in Italian trattorias.

🍝 Culinary Expertise

Yes, farfalle adds texture to soups, as tested in our Mexican Soup Recipes.


Conclusion: Your Bow Tie Pasta Adventure

These Bow Tie Pasta Recipes transform farfalle into a global feast, from Italian Garlic-Butter Spinach Pasta to Mediterranean Lemon Herb Pasta Salad, inspired by our family’s 50+ country journey. Readers like @PastaLover on X rave about the Chicken Alfredo, while @FoodieFam loves the Pasta Chips’ crunch. Share your creations with #MangoesPalmTrees. Try our Chicken Noodle Soup or Personality Quiz Hub for more. Bon appétit!

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About Oliver & Natalia Mayerhoffer

Oliver & Natalia Mayerhoffer blend British, Austrian, and Siberian roots across 50+ countries. With Victor (born November 24, 2016, Koh Samui), they share kid-tested recipes and travel tips from Thailand (2016–2018), the UK (2018–2023), and now Southeast Asia.

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