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Homemade Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

Delicious Homemade Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries

Enjoy this Homemade Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries, a delightful balance of flavors that is both nutritious and easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz short pasta such as bowtie, penne, or rotini
For the Salad
  • 4 cups baby spinach opt for tender leaves
  • 1 cup dried cranberries adds sweetness
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese for a salty kick
  • 1/2 cup toasted walnuts or pecans to add crunch
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for acidity
  • 1 tbsp honey optional, for sweetness
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard optional, adds depth
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 1 tsp black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, spinach, cranberries, feta, walnuts, and red onion. Gently fold to combine.
  4. Dress the salad with the dressing and gently toss until well-coated.
  5. Let the salad rest at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.
  6. Serve cold or at room temperature, giving it a gentle toss before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, cool pasta before mixing with salad ingredients. Adjust seasoning to taste.

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