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: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

By Lisa

March 25, 2025

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Picture this: a colorful bowl brimming with a delightful mix of spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries. The aroma wafts through the air like a siren’s call, beckoning you to indulge. Imagine the tangy burst of cranberries mingling with creamy feta as you take that first forkful. It’s an explosion of flavors that feels like a party in your mouth

Is there anything better than a dish that looks as good as it tastes? This vibrant salad isn’t just for fancy dinner parties; it’s the perfect companion for picnics or just a Tuesday night when you want to impress your taste buds without breaking a sweat. Trust me; everyone who tries this recipe will be begging for seconds (or thirds).

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This tasty spinach pasta salad offers incredible flavor without spending hours in the kitchen
Customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand
Its vibrant colors make it a showstopper at any gathering
Enjoy it cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for any occasion

A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote of 15 to 20 words sharing a specific experience with the recipe.

When I first made this dish for my family reunion, they devoured it faster than I could serve

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Rotini Pasta: This spiral-shaped pasta holds onto flavors beautifully; cook until al dente for the best texture.
Fresh Spinach: Look for bright green leaves; baby spinach adds tenderness and sweetness to the salad.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings tanginess; opt for high-quality cheese for maximum flavor impact.
Dried Cranberries: These little gems add sweetness; choose sweetened or unsweetened based on your taste preference.
Cherry Tomatoes: Use ripe cherry tomatoes for juiciness; halve them for added visual appeal.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds crunch and sharpness; soak in water briefly if you prefer milder flavors.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; opt for cold-pressed varieties for better flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish; don’t skip it—it’s essential
Salt & Pepper: Season generously but taste as you go to find that perfect balance.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt once it’s bubbling like you’ve just won at bingo Toss in the rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes usually does the trick.

Prepare Your Veggies: While waiting, rinse your fresh spinach under cool water until it’s crisp and ready to shine Slice those cherry tomatoes in half like you’re about to unveil their juicy secrets and thinly chop your red onion—don’t forget those tear-filled moments of chopping

Toss It All Together: Drain your cooked pasta once done (don’t let them stick together like they owe each other money), and transfer them into a large mixing bowl. Add in the fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, and red onion—watch out It’s about to get colorful.

Add Dressing & Seasoning: Drizzle olive oil over your glorious mix along with freshly squeezed lemon juice (your taste buds will thank you later). Sprinkle salt and pepper generously while giving everything a gentle toss until evenly coated—like you’re mixing up some fun confetti

Chill & Serve: Pop your beautiful creation into the fridge for at least 30 minutes—it needs some time to chill out before serving When ready, give it another quick toss before plating up this gorgeous spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries that’s sure to steal hearts (and stomachs)

You Must Know

Spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries is not just colorful; it’s a textural delight
The combination of creamy feta and chewy cranberries makes every bite an adventure
This dish is perfect for summer picnics or cozy winter dinners, showcasing versatility and freshness

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente, then cool it quickly under cold water. Meanwhile, prepare your dressing for maximum flavor infusion.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap spinach for kale or add grilled chicken for protein. You can even mix in roasted vegetables to elevate the flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply enjoy cold or let it sit out to reach room temperature before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a creamier dressing, consider adding Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
Always taste as you go to balance flavors perfectly
When using dried cranberries, soak them briefly in warm water for added juiciness

Sharing my first experience making spinach pasta salad was quite a journey I invited friends over, and they devoured every bite, asking for the recipe immediately.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta in spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries?

Absolutely! Any short pasta will work well, such as fusilli or penne.

How can I make spinach pasta salad more filling?

Adding chickpeas or grilled chicken can boost the protein content effectively.

What’s the best way to serve spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

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