Description
Spinach Pasta Salad is a fresh, healthy, and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with vibrant vegetables, spinach, and a tangy dressing. It’s a versatile, customizable dish that works as a side or main course for any occasion. Whether served at picnics, potlucks, or family dinners, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- For the salad:
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, fusilli, or bowtie work best)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- For the dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it al dente to maintain a bit of bite in the salad. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set aside to drain completely.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, wash and prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. If you’re using black olives and feta, prepare those as well.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives (if using). Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Add cheese and garnish: If desired, crumble feta cheese over the salad and toss lightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of color and flavor.
- Chill and serve: Let the salad sit for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also refrigerate it for 1-2 hours before serving for an even better flavor.
Notes
For added protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added.Change up the cheese: Swap feta for mozzarella, goat cheese, or Parmesan for a different flavor.Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the salad.Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, avocados, or roasted sweet potatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
