Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta & Cranberries

 Description

Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta & Cranberries is a fresh, colorful, and flavor-packed salad perfect for lunches, potlucks, or light dinners. Tender pasta is tossed with fresh spinach, creamy feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and a tangy homemade dressing for the perfect balance of savory and sweet. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and easy to prepare ahead of time.

Ingredients For the Salad

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta (bowtie, rotini, or penne)
• 3 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
• ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• ¼ cup walnuts or pecans (optional, chopped)

For the Dressing

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & black pepper to taste

 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. Prepare Dressing
   In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until combined.
3. Assemble Salad
   In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, spinach, feta cheese, cranberries, red onion, and nuts if using.
4. Toss Together
   Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
5. Chill & Serve
   Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes for best flavor, then serve cold.

 Time Required

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: ~35 minutes

Servings

• Serves: 4–6 people

 Notes

• Use baby spinach for a softer texture.
• Feta adds saltiness, so season carefully.
• Best served chilled or at room temperature.

Tips

• Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Substitute goat cheese for a creamier flavor.
• Toast nuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)

• Calories: 280–360 kcal
• Protein: 8–12 g
• Carbohydrates: 30–38 g
• Fat: 12–18 g
• Fiber: 3–5 g

 Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants: Cranberries and spinach support overall health.
• Balanced flavors: Sweet, tangy, salty, and fresh in every bite.
• Great for meal prep: Easy to make ahead.
• Nutrient-rich: Provides fiber, calcium, and healthy fats.

 Q&A

Q1: Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or parmesan work well.

Q2: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta.

Q3: Can I use fresh cranberries?
Dried cranberries are recommended for sweetness and texture.

Q4: What protein pairs best with this salad?
Grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas are excellent choices.

Q5: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, prepare a few hours ahead and chill before serving.