Description
8 oz pasta (penne, bowtie, or rotini)
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon honey
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped spinach, feta cheese, dried cranberries, red onion, and nuts (if using).
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinaigrette, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until well combined.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pasta salad every time. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions for ‘al dente’ texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse immediately with cold water until completely cool. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy. While the pasta cooks, prepare your ingredients: chop the spinach, thinly slice the red onion, crumble the feta, and toast the nuts in a dry pan until fragrant. Combine all these ingredients with the cooled pasta and dried cranberries in your large mixing bowl.
For the dressing, use a small bowl or a jar with a lid. Add the balsamic vinaigrette, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the mixture is fully emulsified. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until every component is evenly coated with the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad is perfect as a standalone light lunch or a vibrant side dish. For a summer barbecue, serve it alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or vegetable skewers. To make it a more substantial meal, add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken. For an elegant presentation, serve it on a bed of extra fresh spinach leaves or in individual mason jars for a picnic. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra feta and a few whole cranberries just before serving.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool pasta. Chop vegetables and toast nuts. Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk dressing ingredients in a separate bowl. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine. Chill before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time? Absolutely. This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours, as the flavors have time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I use instead of feta cheese? Goat cheese crumbles offer a similar tangy profile. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan feta alternative or simply omit it.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together after rinsing? After rinsing with cold water, toss the pasta with a teaspoon of olive oil. This creates a light barrier that prevents clumping.
Can I use a different type of vinegar in the dressing? Yes. A red wine vinaigrette or a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing would work well, though the flavor profile will change.
Is there a substitute for the nuts due to allergies? For a nut-free version, you can omit them entirely or add a crunchy element with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will become soggy when mixed with the dressing. Always rinse it under cold water to halt cooking. Do not add the dressing while the pasta is still warm, as it will absorb too much and make the salad dry. When tossing the salad, be gentle to avoid breaking the softer ingredients like the feta cheese. Finally, do not skip the chilling time; allowing the salad to rest in the refrigerator is crucial for the flavors to fully develop.
Conclusion
This Spinach, Feta, and Cranberry Pasta Salad is a celebration of textures and flavors, combining savory, sweet, and tangy elements in one delightful dish. Its simplicity, make-ahead convenience, and versatility make it a reliable recipe for any occasion, from busy weeknights to festive gatherings. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and customize it to your taste. Enjoy the process of creating this colorful and satisfying meal.
