Mediterranean Farfalle Pasta Salad Recipe with Ham

May is Mediterranean Diet Month and this Med-diet friendly farfalle pasta bowl is a tasty way to kick things off.
Just add multi-colored cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, broccoli florets, ham and basil and you have a satisfying and nutritious pasta salad Buddha bowl recipe. These bright and light dishes are traditionally packed with nutrients and delightful flavor for you to enjoy, especially as spring turns to summer. Substitute Barilla's multigrain ProteinPlus® Farfalle to bolster the protein power of this healthy meal.
The Mediterranean diet is a healthy way of eating inspired by the traditional dietary patterns of the Mediterranean region. It focuses on eating a balanced diet of of quality whole foods—including pasta.
For more Mediterranean diet-friendly pasta recipes and additional information on how to stick to a beneficial Mediterranean diet browse our selection of scientific studies and portioning advice.
Mediterranean Buddha Bowl Pasta Salad
Ingredients½ box Farfalle
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 pints multi-colored cherry tomatoes, halved
8 ounces ovoline mozzarella
1 pound broccoli florets, blanched
8 basil leaves
4 ham slices
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to the package directions.
2. Drain one minute short of the required cooking time –drizzle with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Let farfalle pasta cool down on a sheet pan.
3. Divide all ingredients in 4 bowls, season with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper and balsamic vinegar.
Recipe and Photo Credit: Chef Lorenzo Boni