Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Mozzarella

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Pesto And Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed; Cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick Recipe Hub

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Mozzarella because it's such a quick and flavorful dish! The bright, fragrant pesto combined with the creamy mozzarella creates a delightful contrast of flavors. Whenever I prepare this dish, it feels like a fresh, sunny day on a plate. Plus, with only a few ingredients, it's perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual gathering with friends. I often pair it with a crisp salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:09:34.805Z

When I first created this Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Mozzarella, I was looking for a quick dish that didn't skimp on flavor. Using fresh basil in the pesto made a world of difference, as it added an aromatic punch that brought everything together. I also discovered that letting the pasta cool slightly before adding the mozzarella helped it stay melty without turning rubbery.

This recipe is a staple in our household, and I've made it countless times. Each time, I play with the addition of vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or spinach, which not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color and nutrition. I encourage you to experiment with what you have on hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh pesto made with fragrant basil and garlic
Creamy textures from melted mozzarella that enhance each bite
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

The Magic of Pesto

Pesto is truly the star of this dish, and using fresh basil makes all the difference. Look for vibrant green leaves that are free of browning or wilting. When blending your pesto, resist the temptation to over-process; you want a slightly coarse texture that can stick to the pasta. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, try adding a handful of pine nuts or walnuts to the mix while blending.

Another tip for an amazing pesto involves using high-quality extra virgin olive oil. The oil not only brings richness but also helps emulsify the sauce, creating a beautiful, silky finish. Taste your pesto before mixing it with pasta to ensure the balance of garlic, cheese, and salt meets your preference—it's easy to adjust with a pinch of cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Perfectly Cooked Pasta

Cooking the bow tie pasta to al dente is essential for a satisfying bite. Remember to always generously salt your boiling water—this is your only opportunity to flavor the pasta itself. If you’re unsure about timing, check the pasta package for guidance, but start tasting a minute or two before the recommended time. It should be firm to the bite with a slight chewiness.

After draining, don’t rinse the pasta. This removes the starch that helps the pesto cling to it. If you need to pause, toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Always save some pasta water; it can be an excellent tool for adjusting the consistency of your sauce later.

Serving and Storing Tips

Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Mozzarella is best served fresh, but if you need to make it ahead, consider storing the components separately. Mixing the pesto with pasta too early can lead to soggy noodles. Once mixed, this dish can last in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to revive its creamy texture.

For a delightful variation, add seasonal vegetables like sautéed zucchini or roasted bell peppers right before serving. This not only enhances nutrition but also adds a pop of color that makes your dish visually appealing. You can also experiment with different types of cheese; a crumbly feta can add a tangy twist!

Ingredients

Pasta and Pesto

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Finishing Touch

8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
Cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and pesto. If it's too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Gently fold in the fresh mozzarella.

Serve

Dish the pasta onto plates or into bowls, optionally garnishing with cherry tomatoes and additional basil leaves. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding red pepper flakes to the pesto. You can also substitute the mozzarella with burrata for a richer flavor.

Variation Ideas

This Bow Tie Pasta recipe is wonderfully versatile. If you want to switch up the flavors, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the pesto for a hint of acidity. Alternatively, try substituting arugula or spinach for a unique twist on your basil pesto. These greens not only change the flavor profile but can also add a different color to your dish.

Incorporating proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can turn this pasta into a heartier meal. Simply sauté your chosen protein and fold it into the pasta right before serving. This method ensures everything warms uniformly without overcooking your delicate mozzarella.

Ingredient Notes

Fresh mozzarella should ideally be used for this recipe as it provides a soft, creamy contrast to the pasta. Look for mozzarella packed in water to ensure moisture and flavor. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, part-skim mozzarella is a suitable substitute, though it may not melt as seamlessly.

When purchasing basil, choose leaves that are vibrant and not bruised or wilted. Storing basil upright in a glass of water (like a bouquet) can extend its freshness for a few days. Remember that basil can oxidize quickly once chopped, so prepare your pesto just before you need it for the best flavor.

Make-Ahead Strategies

If you're planning a gathering, consider preparing the pesto a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen—simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, just cook the pasta and combine it with the pesto and mozzarella for a quick assembly.

To make your meal extra special, prepare a couple of side dishes in advance, such as a simple green salad or garlic bread. These can be served alongside the pasta to round out the meal without much additional effort on the day of your gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver, and you can still enjoy a quick and delicious meal.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! You can easily add vegetables like spinach, arugula, or cherry tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrition.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat. Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is rennet-free if you're strictly vegetarian.