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–+ servings
Homemade Spinach Pasta Salad

Homemade Spinach Pasta Salad for a Vibrant, Fresh Meal

This Homemade Spinach Pasta Salad is a vibrant centerpiece that brings joy to gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces short pasta (bowtie or rotini)
  • 4 cups baby spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 3/4 cup feta cheese chunky
  • 1/2 cup toasted nuts (walnuts or pecans)
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey optional
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, spinach, cranberries, feta, nuts, and onion. Toss gently to mix everything without crumbling the feta too much.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Let sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
  5. Serve chilled, tossing again if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make sure the pasta is cool before adding spinach. Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days and keep nuts separate until serving.

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