Nutritious Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries
Nutritious Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries is a vibrant and wholesome dish that combines fresh ingredients for a delightful flavor experience. This easy-to-make salad features whole wheat pasta, nutrient-dense baby spinach, creamy feta cheese, and sweet cranberries, making it perfect for busy lunches, potluck gatherings, or light dinners. The zesty dressing ties all the elements together, enhancing every bite with a burst of flavor. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a side dish to grilled proteins, this salad is sure to impress while providing essential nutrients.
- 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 the whole wheat pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with baby spinach, feta cheese, cranberries, sliced almonds, and red onion. Toss gently.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg