Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

When you crave a refreshing and vibrant dish, look no further than this Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries! This delightful recipe combines tender pasta, crispy fresh spinach, and a zesty dressing, making it a must-try for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend lunches. I remember hosting a picnic, and my friends gobbled this salad up in no time—proving that the way to a man’s heart is indeed through his stomach! Not only is this salad easy and quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes, but it’s also a fantastic way to get the family excited about eating their greens. If you loved my classic Tomato Basil Pasta Salad, you’re in for a treat with this salad too. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries!

What is Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries?

What’s in a name? When we talk about Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries, it’s more than just a mouthful; it’s a delightful combination of flavors! Picture this—fresh greens, creamy feta, and sweet cranberries all dancing in a bowl of pasta. I like to think of it as a party on your plate! This colorful dish is called so because it features the star players: spinach, a powerhouse of nutrients, pasta for heartiness, and cranberries for a pop of sweetness. It’s like a warm hug on a plate. So why not treat yourself to this tasty salad? Your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This:

You’re going to adore this Spinach Pasta Salad for three main reasons! First, the vibrant combination of flavors creates a standout dish that’s bursting with freshness. The tangy feta cheese harmonizes with the sweetness of cranberries, while crunchy walnuts or pecans add delightful texture. Second, making this salad at home saves you money, allowing you to create a restaurant-quality dish without breaking the bank. Lastly, its versatility is unmatched! Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, as a side dish at dinner, or even as the star of your lunchbox, it hits all the right notes. If you liked my Easy Greek Pasta Salad, I know you’re going to love this one too!

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries is not only easy to visualize but surprisingly simple to prepare! It comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you crave something delicious yet hassle-free. Highlighting fresh ingredients and delightful flavors, this salad promises to satisfy your hunger and tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as bowtie, penne, or rotini)
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped if desired
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for slight sweetness)
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (if using), Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, fresh spinach, dried cranberries, crumbled feta, chopped walnuts or pecans, and sliced red onion. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, making sure all ingredients are well coated.
4. Serve: Let the salad sit for about 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve it immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If you refrigerate, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

What to Serve Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries:

This salad plays well with others! Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or even as a side to your favorite protein. For a complete meal, pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a light soup, like minestrone. It’s also great with a refreshing beverage, like iced tea or lemonade, which complements the salad’s flavors beautifully.

Top Tips for Perfecting:

• Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap out feta for goat cheese or use seeds instead of nuts for a nut-free option.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
• Timing Adjustments: Prepare the dressing ahead of time to save minutes during meal preparation. You can also grill your chicken while cooking the pasta!

Storing and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers of this Spinach Pasta Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to make it ahead for meal prep, consider leaving the dressing off until you’re ready to serve. To reheat, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes or lightly microwave just enough to take the chill off—avoid overheating to keep the ingredients fresh!

FAQs

• Can I make this salad ahead of time?
  Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh.
• What other ingredients can I add?
  You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or avocados for extra freshness and flavor.
• Is this salad gluten-free?
  You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta options available in the market.

Conclusion

Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries is a delightful dish that’s versatile and packed with flavor! Perfect for busy nights or as a refreshing side at your next get-together, this salad is sure to impress. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience. Happy cooking!