Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Tomato
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
8 servings
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Calories
255 kcal
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Course
Side Dish
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Cuisine
American, Vegetarian
Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Tomato
Description
Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Tomato features orecchiette pasta cooked until tender and mixed with fresh chopped spinach, juicy diced tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and creamy feta cheese. The Greek vinaigrette dressing, made from lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and dried herbs, provides a bright and slightly tangy coating that brings together the ingredients without overwhelming their individual flavors.
The salad is served either immediately or chilled, allowing the flavors to meld further. The mix of fresh vegetables with pasta makes this dish mildly textured, with the feta adding salty creaminess that complements the acidity of the lemon and vinegar. Variations of dressing can be used, including bottled options, to adapt to different tastes.
This pasta salad is practical for lunches, casual dinners, or as a side to grilled meats. It pairs well with Mediterranean or light dishes. The recipe’s flexibility with dressing and pasta shapes allows for adaptation based on what’s on hand or personal preference.
Adjust the amount of vegetables and cheese to taste, and consider chilling the salad before serving for a refreshing experience. Using fresh ingredients ensures the best balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta
- 2 cups spinach chopped, fresh
- 1-2 cups tomatoes fresh; diced
- 1/4-1/2 cup red onion finely diced
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
GREEK VINAIGRETTE
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- ¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 TBSP red wine vinegar
- 1-2 cloves garlic (smashed and minced)
- ½ tsp parsley dried
- ¼ tsp basil dried
- ¼ tsp dried oregano leaves
- ⅛ tsp salt sea salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Frist whisk together your dressing. Juice 1 lemon and combine with remaining ingredients in a small mason jar. Secure lid tightly and shake to combine. Shake again before using.
- Prefer a different dressing? Go for it! Bottled dressing can work great in a pinch and this salad also works marvelously with Italian dressing!
- Cook pasta in water via package instructions until tender.
- Drain in a colander and add to a large bowl.
- Combine with spinach, tomato, onion, and feta. Give dressing another shake, pour over salad, and mix well.
- Enjoy as is (I always dig into a bowl right away) or chill before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute orecchiette with any medium pasta shape you have available.
- If you prefer, use ready-made bottled dressings; Italian dressing pairs well with this salad.
- Nutrition facts are estimates and can vary depending on ingredient brands and quantities.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 255 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 255kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
| Protein | 7g | 14% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 8mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 151mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 187mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 807IU | 16% |
| Vitamin C | 11mg | 12% |
| Calcium | 66mg | 7% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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