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: 4 cups fresh spinach leaves; 2 cups rotini pasta (cooked); 1 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

By Elisa Levine

March 26, 2025

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The aroma of a fresh spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries wafts through the air like a gentle spring breeze. Picture this vibrant dish bursting with flavors that dance together in perfect harmony, making your taste buds sing The tangy feta cheese meets the sweet-tart cranberries on a bed of tender pasta, creating a culinary masterpiece that’s just waiting to take your next picnic or potluck by storm.

I remember the first time I made this salad; it was during a family BBQ that was more chaotic than a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. Everyone was raving about it, and I found myself grinning from ear to ear as they devoured every last bite. Now, this recipe is my go-to for gatherings – it’s an instant crowd-pleaser

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries is incredibly easy to prepare; you’ll impress everyone without breaking a sweat
The combination of flavors will leave everyone craving more
Its vibrant colors make it not only delicious but also beautiful on your table
Perfect for picnics or as a side dish at family dinners

My friend once declared this dish “life-changing” after tasting it at my housewarming party. That kind of reaction is hard to forget

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Fresh Spinach: Choose bright green leaves that are crisp; avoid wilted ones for maximum freshness.
Pasta: Use any small pasta shape like rotini or farfalle; they hold onto the dressing perfectly.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess; opt for high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries bring sweetness; ensure they’re plump and juicy.
Olive Oil: A good extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; choose one you enjoy eating raw.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate all the flavors in your salad.

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

Let’s Make it together

Start by cooking your pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes depending on the type.

Drain and cool your pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help keep your pasta firm while mingling with those vibrant ingredients.

Prepare your dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. This simple dressing will tie all the flavors together beautifully.

Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add cooled pasta, fresh spinach leaves, crumbled feta cheese, and dried cranberries. Gently toss everything together to ensure each ingredient gets coated with that zesty dressing.

Serve it up: Transfer your colorful salad into a serving bowl or platter. You can garnish it with extra feta or cranberries if you’re feeling fancy – because who doesn’t love some extra flair?

Chill before serving: Letting your salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Trust me; patience pays off here

And there you have it Your delightful spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries is ready to wow friends and family alike. Enjoy every bite while basking in compliments like they’re confetti raining down at your own parade

You Must Know

This spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries is not just a delicious dish; it’s a colorful feast for the eyes and taste buds
The combination of flavors creates a delightful balance that will have everyone begging for seconds
Perfect for potlucks or as a light meal, it’s versatile and easy to prepare

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente; then, while it cools, chop the veggies and whisk the dressing. This efficient sequence saves time and ensures everything blends seamlessly together.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the feta for goat cheese or add grilled chicken for protein. Toss in some nuts for crunch or switch cranberries with dried cherries to mix things up

Storing & Reheating

Store your spinach pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No need to reheat; this dish is best served cold or at room temperature.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best flavor, use fresh spinach instead of frozen; it enhances texture
Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be firm yet tender
Make the dressing ahead of time to let flavors meld beautifully before mixing everything together

I remember making this spinach pasta salad for a family gathering, and the compliments poured in It became an instant favorite, proving that simplicity can shine bright on any table.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Any short pasta like fusilli or penne holds dressing well and adds great texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after marinating in the fridge for a few hours.

How do I keep my spinach fresh?

Wash and dry thoroughly before storing it in a breathable container to maintain freshness longer.

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