Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying, this Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries is just the ticket! It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a favorite in my household. Whether I’m preparing for a busy weeknight meal or hosting a family gathering, this salad never fails to impress. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up—perfect for those days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this spinach pasta salad is its versatility. You can serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a light meal on its own. The combination of creamy feta with the sweetness of cranberries creates a burst of flavor that’s absolutely irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with goodness, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days—great for meal prep!
• Flavorful & Fresh: The combination of spinach, feta, and cranberries gives this dish vibrant flavors that brighten up any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that making this Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries requires just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 cups rotini pasta (uncooked)
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the cheese: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy twist.
• Add nuts: Toss in some walnuts or pecans for an extra crunchy texture.
• Include veggies: Add diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrients.
• Change the pasta shape: Use bowtie pasta or penne instead of rotini to mix things up.

How to Make Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Draining and cooling the pasta afterward is essential because warm pasta can wilt the spinach if mixed too soon.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach

While your pasta is cooking, rinse the fresh spinach under cold water. Shake off any excess moisture; you want your leaves crisp and ready to mix into the salad without adding extra water.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your cooled rotini pasta, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and dried cranberries. Toss everything gently to mix; this helps ensure each bite has a bit of everything!

Step 4: Whisk Together Dressing

In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing adds brightness to your salad! Drizzle it over your salad while tossing gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Season & Serve

Finally, give your salad a taste. Adjust seasoning if needed—maybe a pinch more salt or pepper will do the trick! Once you’re happy with it, serve immediately or refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy.

This Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

Creating the perfect spinach pasta salad is all about attention to detail, and I’m here to help you make it shine!

• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking the pasta just right ensures it retains a slight firmness, which adds a delightful texture to your salad and prevents it from becoming mushy.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach, high-quality feta, and plump cranberries can elevate the flavor of your salad, making each bite taste vibrant and delicious.

• Dress wisely: Adding the dressing while tossing the salad helps distribute the flavors evenly. This way, every forkful is as tasty as the last!

• Chill before serving: Allowing your salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully.

• Customize to your taste: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for added freshness, or replace feta with goat cheese for a tangy twist!

How to Serve Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

This spinach pasta salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an excellent centerpiece for any gathering. Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and fresh aroma.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze some extra citrus over their portions for an added zing.
• Toasted seeds or nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can provide an extra crunch that complements the creamy feta.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms bring a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the lightness of the salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty and fluffy side dish adds protein and fiber, making your meal more filling while complementing the freshness of the salad.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: A creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips makes for a delightful appetizer that guests will love dipping into while enjoying their salad.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast to the savory elements of your main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress your family and friends with a beautifully presented and incredibly tasty spinach pasta salad! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries is not only a delight to eat, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up ahead of time for busy weekdays or gatherings, making your life a little simpler.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• If you’re concerned about sogginess, consider storing the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the pasta and fresh ingredients.
• However, you can freeze cooked pasta if you’re preparing a larger batch; just be sure to toss it in olive oil before freezing to prevent sticking.

Reheating

• For best results, enjoy the salad cold straight from the fridge.
• If you prefer it warm, gently heat the pasta separately before mixing with spinach and other ingredients.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious salad.

Can I make Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries without feta?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using goat cheese or a dairy-free substitute. This will still give you that creamy texture!

How long does Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries last in the fridge?

This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain crispness.

Can I add more ingredients to my Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries?

Yes! Feel free to customize your salad by adding nuts like walnuts or seeds for crunch, or even some diced bell peppers for extra color and flavor.

What type of pasta works best in Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries?

Rotini is a great choice as it holds onto the dressing well. However, you could also use penne or farfalle if you prefer!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries finds a special place in your kitchen! It’s vibrant, nutritious, and so easy to make—perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite as you create delightful memories around the table. I can’t wait for you to try it!