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Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries
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Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries is a vibrant, fresh, and tangy salad perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch. Combining tender pasta with crisp fresh spinach, salty crumbly feta cheese, and sweet dried cranberries, this easy-to-make dish balances savory and sweet flavors with a bright lemon-garlic dressing. It’s nutritious, colorful, and crowd-pleasing with options to customize for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Greens

  • 8 oz rotini or penne pasta
  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried

Cheese and Fruit

  • 4 oz good-quality crumbly feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts (optional)
  • Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or cooked shrimp (optional for protein boost)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool it for the salad. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. This simple dressing adds brightness and balances the flavors.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with fresh spinach leaves, crumbled feta cheese, and dried cranberries. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Optional Add-ins: If desired, stir in toasted nuts or your choice of protein such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp. Adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor brightness.
  • Lightly toast nuts to enhance their flavor and add depth to the salad.
  • Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  • Add dressing gradually to lightly coat ingredients and avoid sogginess.
  • For vegan option, replace feta with plant-based cheese or marinated tofu.
  • Use fresh, crisp spinach and toss it just before serving to maintain its texture and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach pasta salad, feta cheese salad, cranberry salad, easy pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, Mediterranean salad, potluck salad, picnic salad

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/spinach-pasta-salad-with-feta-and-cranberries/