Description
For the Salad:
12 oz fusilli pasta
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1 cup baby spinach, chopped
1/4 cup toasted almonds, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Citrus Poppyseed Dressing:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp poppy seeds
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and black pepper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, ricotta cheese, dried cranberries, spinach, toasted almonds, red onion, and feta cheese if using.
Drizzle the citrus poppyseed dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy this refreshing and creamy pasta salad!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 420 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse immediately under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely.
2. Prepare the Dressing: While the pasta cooks, make the dressing. In a small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk or shake together the olive oil, fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Toast the Almonds: If your almonds are not pre-toasted, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool before adding to the salad.
4. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large serving bowl, add the cooled pasta, ricotta cheese, chopped baby spinach, dried cranberries, sliced red onion, cooled toasted almonds, and optional feta cheese.
5. Assemble and Toss: Drizzle the prepared citrus poppyseed dressing over the pasta mixture. Using two large spoons or salad tongs, gently toss everything together until the dressing evenly coats all ingredients and the ricotta is well distributed.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a vibrant main dish for a light lunch, or as a standout side at picnics, potlucks, and barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or lemon-herb marinated shrimp. For a complete meal, add a side of crusty bread or garlic knots.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool fusilli pasta. Whisk together a simple citrus poppyseed dressing. Combine the pasta with ricotta, spinach, cranberries, almonds, red onion, and optional feta in a large bowl. Toss with the dressing and serve chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance. For best texture, add the spinach and almonds just before serving to prevent wilting and sogginess.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese? For a similar creamy texture, try crumbled goat cheese, small-curd cottage cheese, or even a creamy plain Greek yogurt.
Is there a substitute for poppy seeds? If you don’t have poppy seeds, you can simply omit them. A pinch of sesame seeds or finely chopped fresh herbs like dill can add a different but pleasant texture and flavor.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some dressing, so a fresh squeeze of orange juice can help revive it.
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Any short pasta with good nooks for holding the dressing and cheese will work, such as rotini, farfalle (bow-tie), or penne.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will become mushy when tossed and chilled. Always rinse it under cold water to cool it quickly. Do not skip toasting the almonds, as this step maximizes their flavor and crunch. Finally, ensure the pasta is completely cool before adding the other ingredients to prevent the spinach from wilting and the cheese from melting.
Conclusion
This Creamy Citrus Fusilli Salad is the perfect balance of refreshing, creamy, and crunchy. With its bright dressing and satisfying mix of textures, it’s a reliable recipe that is simple to prepare yet impressive enough for any occasion. Its make-ahead flexibility and crowd-pleasing flavor profile make it a guaranteed favorite.
