There’s just something about a fresh Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta that screams summer, don’t you think? The vibrant green of the spinach, the burst of juicy cherry tomatoes, and the creamy, tangy feta come together in a delightful way that makes my taste buds dance! I remember whipping this up for a backyard barbecue last year, and it was such a hit! Everyone was raving about it, and I was just thrilled to share a taste of the Mediterranean with my friends. It’s light yet satisfying, and it pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish, or even just on its own as a refreshing lunch. Trust me, once you try this salad, you’ll be making it a staple at all your summer gatherings, too!
Ingredients for Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta
- 2 cups cooked pasta: I usually use rotini or penne because they hold the dressing nicely, but any pasta shape will do! Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
- 4 cups fresh spinach: Grab a big bunch of vibrant, fresh spinach! You want it to be crisp and bright green—this is what gives the salad that refreshing crunch.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These little gems add a burst of sweetness and color. I love using a mix of red and yellow ones for that extra pop!
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Use a good quality feta for that creamy, tangy flavor. I prefer the block-style feta that I crumble myself because it’s so much fresher!
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced: This adds a nice bite to the salad, but if you’re sensitive to raw onion, feel free to use less or soak it in cold water for a milder flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will really elevate the dressing, so don’t skimp here—this is where the flavor comes from!
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens everything up! I always find that a little acidity brings all the flavors together beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: This is your chance to season it just right. A pinch of salt and a twist of pepper can make a world of difference.
How to Prepare Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta
Making this Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a refreshing dish ready in no time!
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente—firm to the bite, but not hard. Once it’s done, drain it in a colander and let it cool completely. This is super important! If you skip this step, you’ll end up wilting your beautiful spinach when you mix everything together.
Mixing the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. The colors are just stunning! I love to give them a gentle toss to mix them up a bit before adding the pasta. This way, every bite will be bursting with flavor!
Preparing the Dressing
Now, grab a small bowl and whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing is the magic that brings everything together! Make sure to taste it—you want that perfect balance of tangy and savory. If it feels a bit off, don’t hesitate to adjust with a bit more lemon or salt.
Combining Everything
Finally, pour your dressing over the salad and give it a good toss. You want every piece of pasta and veggie to be coated in that delicious dressing! If you find it a bit dry, drizzle in a little more olive oil. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and watch everyone dig in!
Tips for Success
To make your Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta truly shine, here are a few tips from my kitchen to yours! First, always let the pasta cool completely before mixing it with the spinach. This keeps the greens from wilting and maintains that refreshing crunch. Second, don’t skimp on the olive oil—it really enhances the flavor! If you want a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for some heat. Lastly, feel free to prep everything ahead of time! Just combine the salad and dressing right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Variations of Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta
If you want to shake things up with your Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta, there are so many fun variations to try! For a Mediterranean twist, add some sliced black or green olives—they bring a briny flavor that pairs beautifully with the feta. You could also toss in some diced cucumber for an extra crunch and refreshing taste. If you love herbs, fresh basil or parsley can elevate the flavor profile even more—just chop them up and mix them in!
Feeling adventurous? Try adding roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for a burst of flavor. And for a protein boost, grilled chicken or chickpeas can make this salad a meal on its own. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and use what you have on hand!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional information for the Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portions, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 8g
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a light lunch or side dish. Enjoy every bite while keeping your health goals in mind!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! If feta isn’t your favorite, you can try using goat cheese for a creamier texture or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste will change a bit!
How long does the Spinach Pasta Salad keep in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember that the spinach may wilt a bit over time, so it’s best to add it just before serving if you can!
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the pasta and prepare the dressing ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving to keep the spinach fresh and crisp. It makes for a perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings!
Is this Spinach Pasta Salad gluten-free?
To make this salad gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of great options available now that taste just as good!
What other vegetables can I add?
The beauty of this salad is its versatility! You can add in bell peppers, cucumbers, or even artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture. Get creative with whatever veggies you love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta creates a burst of flavors that’s incredibly refreshing.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with veggies and protein, this salad is a nutritious option that’s light yet satisfying, perfect for maintaining a balanced diet.
- Versatile: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or proteins to customize it to your taste—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this salad!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance for easy meal prep! Just wait to add the spinach until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a family dinner, this salad is always a hit with everyone—trust me, it’ll disappear quickly!
Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta: 5 Irresistible Layers of Flavor
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing spinach pasta salad with feta cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain and cool the pasta.
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, tomatoes, red onion, and feta.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Try adding olives for extra flavor.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta