Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer picnic? Look no further! This vibrant pasta salad recipe featuring spinach is packed with fresh flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners, and requires minimal cooking time. Get ready to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal that's both beautiful and tasty! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, farfalle, or your favorite shape)
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool. This step is crucial for preventing a soggy salad.
-
Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives. Washing and chopping the vegetables beforehand streamlines the cooking process, making this a truly quick dinner idea.
-
Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. A simple homemade dressing elevates the flavor of this delicious dish.
-
Combine Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients.
-
Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat evenly. Avoid over-mixing, as this can break the pasta.
-
Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional but recommended for best results. Serve chilled and enjoy! This healthy meal is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pasta Salad:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better in the salad.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables add vibrant flavor and color to the salad.
- Taste and adjust the dressing: Adjust the amount of vinegar, lemon juice, or seasonings to your preference.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans.
- Make it ahead: This pasta salad tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for parties or potlucks.
Variations:
- Add different vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts.
- Use different cheeses: Try goat cheese, parmesan cheese, or mozzarella instead of feta.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it vegan: Omit the feta cheese and use a vegan alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal option packed with nutrients. It's a fantastic source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables and pasta. This recipe showcases how easy and enjoyable homemade cooking can be! Enjoy this delightful and easy pasta salad!