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Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries
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This Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries is a fresh, nourishing, and vibrant dish combining fresh spinach, tangy feta cheese, and sweet dried cranberries. Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a healthy lunch, versatile enough as a side or light dinner, and great for make-ahead meal prep. The salad offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures with a light lemon and olive oil dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh spinach, rinsed and dried
  • 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, fusilli, or farfalle), cooled
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped (optional)

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking, creating a perfect base for the salad.
  2. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, rinse and thoroughly dry fresh spinach. Thinly slice the red onion and roughly chop the nuts if using, ensuring ingredients stay crisp and vibrant.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a light, zesty vinaigrette that will brighten the salad.
  4. Combine Everything: In a large bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, fresh spinach, red onion, dried cranberries, and nuts. Pour the dressing over the mixture and fold in the crumbled feta cheese last to retain its texture.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and spinach to soften slightly. Serve cold or at room temperature for optimal taste.

Notes

  • Use fresh spinach for better texture and vibrant color instead of baby spinach or pre-washed packs.
  • Add vinaigrette gradually to avoid overdressing and sogginess.
  • Opt for pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle that hold dressing and ingredients well.
  • Lightly toast walnuts or pecans to enhance flavor and crunch.
  • Prepare the salad a few hours ahead but add dressing and feta just before serving for maximum freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach pasta salad, feta cheese salad, cranberry salad, healthy pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad, gluten-free pasta salad

Find it online: https://sophiemelody.com/spinach-pasta-salad-with-feta-and-cranberries/