Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta & Cranberries. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Fresh and Zesty : Bright lemon vinaigrette balances the sweetness of cranberries and saltiness of feta.
- Nutrient-Packed : Spinach adds greens, while pasta and feta provide protein and carbs for a balanced meal.
- Quick and Easy : Ready in under 20 minutes—no cooking required beyond boiling pasta.
- Customizable : Add nuts, protein, or herbs to make it your own.
- Make-Ahead Friendly : Flavors meld beautifully when chilled, making it ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this salad lies in its balance of sweet, salty, and tangy . Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (farfalle, fusilli, or penne work well)
- 2 cups fresh spinach , roughly chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper , to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to whip up this fresh, vibrant salad? Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. Avoid overcooking!
Step 2: Toast the Nuts (Optional)
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast nuts for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Let cool, then chop.
Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, zest, honey, Dijon, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta, spinach, feta, cranberries, and nuts (if using).
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Give it a final toss before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The magic of this salad lies in its contrast of flavors and textures . The creamy feta and sweet cranberries play against the fresh spinach and nutty crunch, while the lemon vinaigrette ties it all together with a light, citrusy zing. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome—a perfect side or light meal.
