Description
This Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries is a vibrant and healthy side dish that combines tender spinach, tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and a delicious dressing. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or as a meal prep option.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz whole wheat or regular pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie work well)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support! process, and set aside to cool.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped spinach, dried cranberries, crumbled feta, and red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
-
Add Optional Toppings:
- If desired, sprinkle the salad with toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the feta with a reduced-fat version or use a vegan feta alternative.
- You can add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost to make this a full meal.
- For added flavor, try using a flavored balsamic vinegar (like fig or raspberry) or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1/6 of the recipe)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg