There’s something undeniably magical about a dish that combines the crispness of fresh spinach with the sweet pop of cranberries and creamy feta. This spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries is like a hug from your favorite aunt—cozy, comforting, and just a little unexpected. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply trying to impress your significant other on a casual Friday night in, this salad will steal the show.
I remember the first time I made this delightful dish—it was during a picnic where I forgot to bring napkins. Picture me frantically trying to balance my plate while dodging ants and inadvertently sticking my finger into what was supposed to be a perfectly plated masterpiece. But despite the chaos, everyone loved it! The vibrant colors and flavors turned frantic bites into delightful smiles all around.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This refreshing spinach pasta salad packs incredible flavor while being super easy to prepare
- The bright colors make it visually stunning on any table setting
- It’s versatile enough for picnics or as a side for grilled dishes
- Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—you can enjoy it all week long!
I still chuckle at how this recipe became my go-to dish for any gathering. Friends have dubbed it “the crowd-pleaser.” My dad even requested it at every family reunion without fail!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green leaves; they provide the perfect base for our colorful salad.
- Pasta (Rotini or Fusilli): Opt for whole grain or gluten-free varieties for added health benefits.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled or cubed; its creamy texture adds richness that balances the sweetness of cranberries.
- Dried Cranberries: Look for unsweetened versions if you prefer less sugar; they bring delightful bursts of sweetness.
- Red Onion: A small amount adds crunch and sharpness; soak in cold water if you want to mellow the flavor.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use good-quality oil for dressing; it enhances the overall flavors beautifully.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds depth; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings—don’t skip these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente—about 8-10 minutes depending on type. Drain well.
Prepare Spinach & Onions: Rinse fresh spinach leaves under cold water until clean. Dry them gently using a kitchen towel or spin in a salad spinner. Thinly slice red onion.
Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, fresh spinach, sliced onions, crumbled feta cheese, and dried cranberries.
Add Dressing & Seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well blended. Drizzle over your salad mixture.
Toss Again & Serve!: Gently toss everything together until well coated in dressing. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving.
Now you have created an irresistible spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries that will wow your guests! Enjoy discovering how each ingredient plays its part in delivering sensational flavors that dance on your taste buds.
While this recipe is simple enough for everyday meals, it has that special flair which makes it ideal for gatherings too! So whether you’re relaxing at home or sharing laughs with friends over dinner, let this bright bowl be the centerpiece of deliciousness!
You Must Know
- This spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries is not only delicious, but it’s also a showstopper at any gathering
- The contrast of textures and flavors makes every bite a joy
- Plus, it’s quick to prepare, which means more time to enjoy with friends!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta until al dente, then rinse it under cold water. This removes excess starch and helps keep the pasta from sticking together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or fruits for extra crunch and flavor. A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten everything up beautifully!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This salad tastes even better after resting, as the flavors meld together.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a creamier texture, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Make sure your spinach is fresh for the best taste and nutrients
- Toss the salad gently to keep the pasta intact and prevent mushiness
The first time I made this spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries, my friends declared me a culinary genius. Their compliments still warm my heart!
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Any short pasta like penne or rotini works well in this salad.
How do I make this salad vegan-friendly?
Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative for a delightful vegan dish.
Can I prepare this spinach pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
START OF TASTYYYYYYYYYYYY CARDDD
Description: This vibrant spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries is a refreshing blend of flavors, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Key Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 cups rotini pasta, uncooked
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Rinse spinach under cold water and dry gently. Slice red onion thinly.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, spinach, sliced onion, feta cheese, and cranberries.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for one hour before serving.
Helpful Notes:
– Feel free to substitute any short pasta like penne or fusilli.
– For added crunch, mix in your favorite nuts such as walnuts or pecans.
– To make it vegan, omit feta or use a plant-based alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
– Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
– Calories: 300
– Sugar: 8g
– Sodium: 250mg
– Total Fat: 16g
– Saturated Fat: 5g
– Unsaturated Fat: 11g
– Trans Fat: 0g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 3g
– Protein: 9g
– Cholesterol: 15mg
Preparation Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Enjoy this delicious spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries at your next gathering!
END OF TASTYYYYYYYY CARDDDDDDDDDD
Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
This vibrant spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries is a refreshing blend of flavors, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups rotini pasta, uncooked
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Rinse the spinach under cold water and dry gently. Thinly slice the red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, spinach, sliced onion, feta cheese, and cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg