Pantry Staples

The Best Bow-Tie Pasta

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Our picks are based on Amazon bestseller rankings, verified customer ratings, and product availability. We update our recommendations regularly to ensure accuracy.

Bow-tie pasta, also known as farfalle, is a versatile and visually appealing pasta shape. Its unique form makes it a favorite for a variety of dishes, from simple weeknight meals to elegant dinner party fare. Selecting the best bow-tie pasta ensures a delightful texture and consistent cooking performance for any culinary creation.

No. 1
LA MODERNA, Bow Tie Corbata Pasta, 7 oz (Pack of 1) | Enriched Durum Wheat Semolina | Kosher, Non-GMO, Iron...
  • Classic Bow Tie Corbata Shape: Add a touch of tradition to your meals with LA MODERNA Bow Tie Pasta. Its fun and versatile shape is perfect for soups, pasta salads, casseroles, or lunchbox favorites.
  • Fortified with Nutrients: Enriched with iron, fiber, B vitamins, and folic acid to support daily wellness. Made with non-GMO ingredients, certified kosher, and free from preservatives or additives.
  • Durum Wheat Semolina: Crafted from premium semolina for a smooth, al dente texture that holds its shape in soups, salads, and hot dishes. Contains gluten for those who require allergen awareness.
  • Quick Cooking Pasta: Ready in only 3 to 5 minutes, this bow tie pasta offers fast and convenient meal prep. Each 7 oz bag makes four hearty servings, ideal for weeknight dinners or quick lunches.
  • Heritage You Can Trust: LA MODERNA has been a trusted staple since 1920, bringing quality, flavor, and over 600 traditional wheat-based products to households across generations.
No. 2
De Cecco Farfalle No. 93 Pasta, 16 Oz, Authentic, Slow Dried, Made with Durum Wheat, Versatile Pasta for...
  • Authentic Italian Pasta: De Cecco Farfalle is a traditional Italian pasta with a distinctive bow-tie shape. Perfect with light, delicate sauces, mild cheese sauces, or in colorful, imaginative pasta salads
  • Premium Ingredients: We use durum wheat which is a high-protein, hard variety of wheat. The result is a smooth, firm bite that holds its shape and taste, giving you a superior pasta experience
  • The De Cecco Method: Our pasta is renowned for its slow-drying process, where the pasta is gently dried at low temperatures for longer periods. This technique preserves the pasta's flavor, texture, and nutritional quality
  • Endless Possibilities: Farfalle pairs beautifully with light tomato sauces, delicate cream sauces, or mild cheeses, and shines in colorful pasta salads. Its versatile shape helps turn every lunch and dinner into an unforgettable moment
  • Discover the Tradition: Since 1886, we've been dedicated to bringing authentic Italian flavors to tables worldwide, with passion and attention to every detail, preserving a tradition of excellence without compromise.
No. 3
Rao's Homemade Farfalle Pasta, 16 Oz Bag
  • Rao’s Homemade Farfalle is a pasta known for its distinctive bow-tie shape with a perfect al dente texture and a delicious flavor that speaks for itself
  • Farfalle pasta is frequently enjoyed with creamy or tomato sauces, and is great in pasta salads
  • Traditionally bronze die cut pasta that's dried slow and low
  • Non-GMO Project Verified and made with just 2 ingredients: house-milled semolina flour and water
  • Over 120 years in the making, Rao’s Homemade sets the standard for restaurant‑quality from the comfort of your home
No. 5
Whole Foods Market, Organic Farfalle, 16 Ounce
  • 16 ounces of organic farfalle pasta
  • Made in Italy at an authentic pastificio
  • Bronze cut and slowly dried to preserve flavor
  • Made with organic durum wheat
  • Perfect for robust tomato or creamy primavera sauces
  • Ideal for pasta salads
  • Traditional butterfly shape from Lombardy
No. 7
Amazon Grocery, Farfalle Pasta, 12 Oz
  • One 12 ounce box of Farfalle Pasta
  • Cooks al dente in 8 minutes
  • Great with Basil Pesto Sauce
  • Contains: Wheat.. May contain: Egg
  • Amazon Grocery has all the favorites you love for less. You’ll find everything you need for great-tasting meals in one shopping trip.
  • Feed your every day with Amazon Grocery
No. 8
LA MODERNA, Bow Tie Corbata Pasta, 7 oz (Pack of 20) | Enriched Durum Wheat Semolina | Kosher, Non-GMO, Iron...
  • Bulk Value Pack: Includes twenty (20) 7 oz bags of LA MODERNA Bow Tie Pasta, perfect for families, schools, or food service. Stock your pantry with versatile pasta ready for everyday meals and gatherings.
  • Classic Bow Tie Corbata Shape: A versatile pasta cut that adds character to soups, salads, casseroles, and hot dishes. Loved across generations for its texture and presentation.
  • Nutritious and Enriched: Made with durum wheat semolina, fortified with iron, folic acid, fiber, and B vitamins. Certified kosher and crafted with non-GMO ingredients, free from preservatives.
  • Quick and Easy Cooking: Boils in only 3 to 5 minutes for fast meals. Each 7 oz bag yields four servings, making it ideal for quick family dinners, school lunches, or bulk meal prep.
  • Heritage Since 1920: LA MODERNA has been a symbol of tradition and flavor for over a century, offering more than 600 wheat-based products trusted by households across Mexico and beyond.
No. 10
DeLallo Farfalle Pasta, Bow-Tie Shape, Made in Italy, Bronze Cut, Made with Only 100% Durum Wheat Semolina...
  • MADE IN ITALY: DeLallo Semolina Pasta begins with a high-quality durum wheat. The wheat is chosen for its beautiful color, wonderful aroma, and high protein content
  • BRONZE DIE EXTRUDED: Extruded with bronze dies to create a rougher surface texture that captures sauces
  • DRIED SLOWLY AT LOW TEMPERATURES: Preserves the color, texture, structure, taste, and aroma of the pasta
  • COOKS TO PERFECTION: Perfect pasta every time in just 12 minutes
  • VERSATILE PASTA SHAPE: Farfalle is great hot or cold. Try it with creamy sauces, red sauces, chunky vegetable sauces and summer pasta salads
  • ABOUT DELALLO: DeLallo is a 3rd generation family-owned and operated Italian foods company. We have been offering gourmet Italian ingredients for passionate home cooks since 1950

Last update on 2026-07-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Bow-Tie Pasta

Understanding Farfalle Pasta

Farfalle, meaning "butterflies" in Italian, is characterized by its pinched center and ruffled edges. This distinctive shape holds sauces well, making it suitable for a wide range of culinary applications. When choosing farfalle, consider its size – smaller varieties are often preferred for lighter sauces and salads, while larger, jumbo farfalle can stand up to heartier, creamier, or meat-based sauces.

Key Ingredients and Quality

The primary ingredient in most quality pasta is durum wheat semolina. This hard wheat variety is essential for achieving the ideal al dente texture, providing a firm bite that doesn't become mushy. Look for pasta made with 100% durum wheat semolina and water. Some artisanal producers may offer variations made with whole wheat, or even gluten-free options using alternative flours like rice, corn, or lentil, which can be excellent choices for those with dietary restrictions.

Texture and Cooking Performance

The "bite" of the pasta is crucial. High-quality farfalle should cook evenly and maintain its shape without breaking apart. The ruffled edges and pinched center should remain intact throughout the cooking process. Different brands may have slightly different milling processes or extrusion techniques, which can affect how the pasta absorbs sauce and its overall mouthfeel. Tasting a piece cooked al dente is the best way to judge its texture.

Packaging and Storage

Farfalle pasta is typically sold in boxes or bags. Ensure the packaging is intact to prevent contamination and maintain freshness. Once opened, store the pasta in an airtight container in a cool, dry pantry. This will help preserve its quality and prevent it from absorbing odors or moisture. Properly stored, dry pasta can last for a very long time.

Comparison Tips

  • Shape Consistency: Examine the pasta for uniformity in size and shape. Consistent pieces cook more evenly.
  • Ingredient List: Prioritize pasta made with durum wheat semolina for the best texture. Check for whole wheat or gluten-free options if needed.
  • Brand Reputation: While not always indicative, well-regarded pasta brands often have a history of producing quality products.
  • Texture Test: If possible, try a small batch from different brands to compare their al dente texture and sauce-holding capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cook bow-tie pasta?
Cook bow-tie pasta in a large pot of generously salted boiling water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite.
How can I tell if my pasta is cooked al dente?
The best way is to taste a piece directly from the boiling water. It should be tender enough to chew easily but still offer a slight resistance, not be mushy or hard in the center.
How should I store uncooked farfalle pasta?
Store uncooked farfalle pasta in its original packaging or an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Can bow-tie pasta be used in pasta salads?
Absolutely! The shape of farfalle is excellent for pasta salads. Its nooks and crannies help capture dressings and small ingredients, making every bite flavorful.
What kind of sauces pair well with bow-tie pasta?
This pasta shape works well with a variety of sauces. Lighter, creamier sauces, vegetable-based sauces, and even simple olive oil and garlic preparations are great. Heartier meat sauces can also be used, especially with larger farfalle.
Are there gluten-free options for bow-tie pasta?
Yes, many brands offer gluten-free versions made from alternative flours like rice, corn, quinoa, or lentils. These are suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.