Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

Name: Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups baby spinach; 2 cups cooked short pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne); 1 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

By Jana Vergara

March 25, 2025

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The delightful aroma of fresh spinach mingling with tangy feta and sweet cranberries is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Imagine a colorful bowl filled to the brim with this vibrant spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries, ready to be devoured at your next picnic or family gathering.

This dish doesn’t just taste fantastic; it brings back memories of sunny afternoons spent outdoors with friends, laughter echoing through the air as we share food that warms our hearts. You can almost hear the crunch of fresh vegetables as you dig in – it’s the perfect blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This spinach pasta salad balances flavors beautifully and requires minimal effort for maximum enjoyment
The combination of textures will impress both family and friends alike
Stunningly colorful ingredients make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
This dish is versatile enough to serve as a side or main course for any occasion

I remember bringing this dish to my cousin’s wedding; everyone raved about it Who knew greens could steal the show?

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spinach: Fresh baby spinach works best for its tender texture and vibrant color.
Pasta: Opt for any short pasta like fusilli or penne that holds dressing well.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy tang; choose quality cheese for the best flavor.
Dried Cranberries: Sweetened dried cranberries provide a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with other ingredients.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add juiciness and a pop of color to your salad.
Red Onion: Finely diced red onion gives a sharp bite that complements the sweetness of cranberries.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for dressing; it enhances flavor while being heart-healthy.
Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar adds brightness and balances the richness of feta.
Salt & Pepper: Seasoning enhances all flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Prepare Your Veggies: While waiting on that pasta, wash and dry your baby spinach thoroughly. Slice cherry tomatoes in half and finely chop red onion.

Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta (cool it down first), spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onion, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese.

Toss With Dressing: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over your masterpiece. Season generously with salt and pepper before tossing everything together gently.

Serve & Enjoy: Let your salad sit for 10 minutes before serving; this allows flavors to mingle beautifully. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature

Now you’re armed with everything you need to whip up this fantastic spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries Just remember that cooking should be fun—so put on some music and enjoy every step of creating this delicious dish

You Must Know

Spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries is a vibrant dish bursting with flavors
The combination of earthy spinach, tangy feta, and sweet cranberries creates a delightful balance that can brighten up any meal
Perfect for parties, picnics, or even a simple lunch at home

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. While it cooks, prepare your dressing and chop the veggies for maximum efficiency.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for dried cherries or raisins, and try different nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store your spinach pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy it cold; no reheating required

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries, always rinse your pasta in cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process
This keeps it firm and prevents clumping
Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens all the flavors beautifully

It was during a summer picnic that I first made this spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries. Friends devoured it while sharing stories, creating lasting memories over every delicious bite.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use fresh spinach instead of cooked?

Absolutely! Fresh spinach adds a delightful crunch to the salad.

How long can I store spinach pasta salad?

You can store it in the fridge for up to three days without losing quality.

What dressing is best for this salad?

A simple vinaigrette or olive oil mixed with lemon juice enhances all flavors beautifully.

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