This colorful salad mixes fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese for a tasty treat that’s good for you! It’s quick to make and perfect for a light meal or a side dish.
Honestly, I love how refreshing this salad feels. Toss in a little lemon juice, and it’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate! 🌞 Who knew being healthy could taste so good?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used small pasta shells because they hold the dressing well and are fun to eat. You can swap it for other shapes like fusilli or penne if you prefer. Gluten-free pasta works here too!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is key for its vibrant green color and mild taste. If spinach isn’t available, try arugula for a peppery kick, or make it with mixed greens for variety.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If you can’t find cherries, try regular tomatoes, just chop them up smaller. Even canned diced tomatoes work in a pinch—just drain well!
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a creamy and tangy flavor. If you want a different taste or can’t have feta, goat cheese or mozzarella can be good substitutes. Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Fresh and Crispy?
To keep your salad fresh, be careful with the dressing. Dress the salad right before serving. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until it’s time to eat.
- Prepare all ingredients and store in the fridge. Combine them just before serving.
- If using a dressing, drizzle just before serving to avoid soggy veggies.
- Chilling the salad for 30 minutes lets the flavors mingle without wilting the greens.
Easy Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz small pasta shells (cooked and cooled)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a few minutes for cooking the pasta. If you let it chill for about 30 minutes, the flavors will be even better. Altogether, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish, but it’s mostly hands-off time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente (cooked but firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. Set aside to let it drain completely.
2. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped fresh spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. Give it a gentle stir to mix the ingredients without breaking anything.
3. Add the Feta and Parsley:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and the chopped parsley over the colorful mixture. This will add a burst of flavor and creaminess. Don’t stir just yet; we’ll do that in the next step!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This dressing is what brings everything together, giving your salad a zesty kick!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your salad. Now, gently toss everything together until the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to crush the feta or tomatoes!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you think it needs a bit more salt or pepper, sprinkle some in, mix, and taste again. Remember, it’s all about making it just right for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
You can enjoy the salad right away, or for an even better flavor, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the tasty flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve cold, and enjoy your refreshing Easy Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While small pasta shells work great, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, farfalle, or even gluten-free options. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If feta isn’t your thing, feel free to use goat cheese or even mozzarella for a different taste. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor while keeping it vegan.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Your salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember that the veggies might get a little softer over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from getting soggy. Toss everything together right before serving for the best taste and texture!
