Nutritious Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Nutritious Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries, a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, from quick lunches to potlucks. This salad combines fresh baby spinach, tangy feta cheese, and sweet dried cranberries, all tossed in a zesty dressing that bursts with flavor. It’s not only visually appealing but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for those seeking a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta (rotini or bowtie)
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook whole wheat pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, fresh spinach, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and diced red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine without damaging the spinach.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg