Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries: A Flavorful & Easy Dish for Busy Days
A fresh, vibrant spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries—quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy days, meal prep, or gatherings. Ready in 20 minutes!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook (after pasta is prepared)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work great!)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/3 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette (or your favorite dressing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. (No one likes mushy pasta!)
Step 2: Prep the Ingredients
While the pasta is cooling, chop the spinach, dice the red onion, and crumble the feta. If using nuts, give them a quick chop for extra crunch.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, spinach, feta, cranberries, red onion, and nuts. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Taste & Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or let it sit in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Keywords: spinach pasta salad with feta and cranberries