Name: Savory Salad with Feta and Cranberries for Easy Summer Meals
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Short Pasta (fusilli or penne); 6 cups Fresh Spinach (washed and dried); 1 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries; 1/4 cup Olive Oil (extra virgin recommended); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

As the sun sets and a warm breeze dances through the trees, there’s nothing that beckons me more than a vibrant bowl of Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries. This delightful dish isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it offers a quick prep time and endless ways to customize, making it perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh spinach, tangy feta, and sweet cranberries creates a refreshing and satisfying experience that can easily transition from a casual lunch to a chic dinner party side. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy! Are you ready to add a burst of color and flavor to your table? Let’s dive in and whip up this refreshing salad together!

Why Choose Spinach Pasta Salad?

Vibrant Colors: This salad is a visual delight, with fresh greens and pop of red from cranberries, making it perfect for any gathering.

Quick Preparation: You’ll have a satisfying dish ready in just 20 minutes, ideal for busy evenings or last-minute invites.

Endlessly Customizable: Want to swap feta for goat cheese or add some crunchy walnuts? The choice is yours!

Healthy and Delicious: Packed with nutrients from spinach and a touch of sweetness from cranberries, this salad is both nourishing and flavorful.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive BBQ or a cozy lunch, this salad fits right in. Pair it with a refreshing Cucumber Salad Refresh for a complete meal!

Salad with Feta and Cranberries Ingredients

• Explore the delightful combinations that create this flavorful salad!

For the Pasta

Short Pasta – Use fusilli or penne for the best bite and texture.

For the Salad Base

Fresh Spinach – Offers vibrant color and essential nutrients; be sure to wash and dry thoroughly.
Feta Cheese – Adds creaminess and tang; swap for goat cheese if you prefer a different flavor.
Dried Cranberries – Infuses sweetness and chewiness; can be substituted with raisins or dried cherries for variety.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – Acts as the dressing base; choose high-quality extra virgin for superior taste.
Lemon Juice – Brings brightness and acidity; freshly squeezed will elevate your salad.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to suit your personal taste preference.

Let’s savor every layer of flavor with this refreshing salad with feta and cranberries!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Add your choice of short pasta, such as fusilli or penne, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8–10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach
While the pasta is cooling, take a generous amount of fresh spinach and rinse it thoroughly under cold water. Shake off excess moisture or use a salad spinner for the best results. This step is crucial, as adding wet spinach to your salad can dilute the dressing. Set the prepared spinach aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In the same bowl with the spinach, add the cooled pasta, crumbled feta cheese, and dried cranberries. Gently toss the ingredients together using tongs or two large forks, ensuring that the creamy feta and chewy cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the salad. The vibrant colors will make this spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries visually appealing.

Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, the juice of one freshly squeezed lemon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined and emulsified. This dressing will enhance the flavors of your salad while providing a bright citrusy finish.

Step 5: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the freshly made dressing over the combined salad ingredients while gently tossing to combine everything. Aim for even coverage of the dressing without over-saturating the salad. The vibrant green spinach combined with the creamy feta and sweet cranberries will create an enticing medley of flavors.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might prefer a little extra lemon juice for brightness or more salt for flavor. This step is essential to ensure that your spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries is perfectly customized to your palate.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once seasoned to your liking, transfer the salad to a beautiful serving bowl or platter. This colorful salad can be enjoyed immediately or allowed to chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a side at your next summer gathering or as a light meal.

What to Serve with Refreshing Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

Elevate your dining experience by pairing vibrant flavors and contrasting textures with your delightful salad.

Garlicky Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken offers a savory element that complements the tangy feta and sweetness of cranberries. Perfect for those summer BBQs!
Crunchy Garlic Bread: This warm, toasty bread provides a delightful crunch, making it an ideal side for scooping up salad. A garlicky aroma fills the air, enhancing the meal’s comfort.
Zesty Lemonade: A refreshing drink that mirrors the lemony notes in your salad. Its sweetness and citrus zing cut through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced sip.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized, seasoned veggies add a hearty rustic flair. Mix in seasonal favorites like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful display on your plate.
Creamy Potato Salad: This dish adds a rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with your salad’s freshness. The comforting flavors remind you of family gatherings and sunny picnics.
Homemade Fruit Sorbet: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a refreshing fruit sorbet. Its icy texture and fruity flavor resonate with the cranberries, offering a light dessert after a hearty meal.

Let your taste buds celebrate the togetherness of flavors!

Helpful Tricks for Spinach Pasta Salad

Perfect Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente to prevent it from getting mushy in the salad. Rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
Fresh Spinach: Always use rinsed and thoroughly dried fresh spinach. Wet leaves can make the salad soggy, diluting the freshness of the salad with feta and cranberries.
Dress Smartly: Mix the dressing just before serving to maintain the salad’s vibrant colors and textures, preventing the pasta from soaking up too much liquid.
Taste Test: Before serving, always taste and adjust seasoning. A little extra salt or lemon can elevate the flavors in your salad!
Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill for 15-30 minutes after dressing for the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy your vibrant, tasty dish!

Make Ahead Options

These Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pasta and dressing up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a quick assembly on busy weeknights. Simply cook the pasta until al dente, cool it under cold water, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The dressing can be whisked together and kept in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. When it’s time to serve, combine the chilled pasta, fresh spinach, crumbled feta, and dried cranberries, then drizzle the dressing over the top. Toss gently for delicious, just-as-fresh results with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Spinach Pasta Salad

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Room Temperature: Best served cold or at room temperature; avoid leaving out for more than 2 hours to maintain safety.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and spinach may suffer upon thawing.

Reheating: If you prefer your salad slightly warm, consider microwaving for about 30 seconds, but it’s best enjoyed cold!

Salad with Feta and Cranberries Variations

Feel free to make this salad your own, adding your favorite touches for an even more delightful experience!

Vegan Option: Omit feta and swap for avocado slices or a vegan cheese alternative for creaminess.
Nuts Galore: Add crunchy walnuts or pecans to introduce a satisfying crunch. You’ll love the added texture contrast!
Berry Boost: Replace cranberries with fresh strawberries or blueberries for a burst of fruity flavor. This twist is refreshing and delightful!
Mediterranean Flair: Toss in chopped cucumbers and Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean-inspired salad. The briny olives complement the feta beautifully.
Herbaceous Addition: Sprinkle fresh basil or mint for a burst of fresh flavor. You’ll be amazed at how herbs can elevate a simple salad!
Extra Zing: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to your dressing for a tangy kick. It brightens flavors, making your salad pop!
Chili Heat: Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. The heat will awaken your taste buds!
Citrus Delight: Experiment with different citrus juices like lime or orange instead of lemon for a unique zing. You might discover a new favorite!

For a complete meal experience, you might also enjoy pairing this salad with a delightful Mac Cheese Caramelized or some flavorful Roasted Carrots Feta as a side-great options for any gathering!

Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right spinach for the salad?
Absolutely! When selecting spinach for your salad, look for vibrant green leaves without dark spots or wilting. Fresh spinach should feel crispy and firm. If you’re picking baby spinach, ensure the leaves are tender and free of blemishes; this will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your salad.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your spinach pasta salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to three days. Remember, the more vibrant and colorful the salad, the more appealing it will be when you go back for seconds. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature for the best taste!

Can I freeze spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries?
I recommend against freezing this dish. Freezing could change the texture of the pasta and spinach, making them soggy when thawed. If you want to save some for later, consider preparing the salad ingredients separately and making it fresh again at a later time!

What should I do if my salad becomes soggy?
If your salad is soggy, it might be due to excess moisture in the spinach or over-dressing. To avoid this, always ensure to rinse and dry the spinach well before mixing it in. If it already happened, try adding a handful of fresh spinach just before serving to restore some crunch!

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This refreshing salad can easily be customized for different dietary needs. If you’re serving someone with lactose intolerance, simply swap feta cheese for a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, for nut allergies, omit nuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds for added crunch without the allergens. The more the merrier when it comes to inclusivity in meals!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Of course! You can prepare the salad base (pasta, spinach, feta, and cranberries) ahead of time, storing the mixed ingredients in the fridge. Keep the dressing separate and combine them on the day you’ll serve it. Allowing the salad to chill for an hour before serving enhances the flavors, making your spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries even more delicious!