Are you looking for a delicious and healthy pasta salad that’s easy to make? This Spinach Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish packed with fresh baby spinach, creamy feta cheese, and sweet cranberries, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s the perfect recipe for picnics, potlucks, meal prep, or a light and satisfying lunch!
Why You’ll Love This Spinach Pasta Salad
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes! Healthy & Nutritious – Loaded with fresh greens and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better after marinating! Great for Gatherings – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or bowtie) 4 cups fresh baby spinach ½ cup crumbled feta cheese ½ cup dried cranberries ¼ cup sliced almonds or walnuts (toasted) ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
¼ cup olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon honey 1 clove garlic (minced) Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Spinach Pasta Salad
Cook the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
Prepare the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, fresh spinach, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and red onion.
Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Toss & Serve
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Pro Tips & Variations
Boost the Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal. Switch Up the Flavors: Swap cranberries for sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. Make It Vegan: Replace feta cheese with vegan cheese or avocado. Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version.
What to Serve with Spinach Pasta Salad?
- Grilled Chicken or Salmon – A perfect pairing for extra protein.
- Garlic Bread – Crunchy and buttery goodness!
- A Refreshing Drink – Try it with homemade lemonade or iced tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Try goat cheese, parmesan, or mozzarella.
Q: What’s the best pasta for this salad? Short pasta like fusilli, penne, or bowtie works best.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Pasta Salad is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make dishes. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick lunch, a potluck, or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today and let us know how you liked it in the comments!
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