Fresh, colorful, and full of sweet and tangy flavor—this Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries is perfect for lunches, potlucks, or a light dinner side dish. The combination of tender pasta, baby spinach, creamy feta, and chewy cranberries makes every bite deliciously balanced.
Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (bowtie, rotini, or penne)
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup crumbled Feta cheese
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
For the Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Make the Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine pasta, spinach, feta, cranberries, red onion, nuts, and cucumber.
4. Toss & Chill
Pour dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving.
Optional Add-Ins
- Grilled chicken
- Avocado slices
- Sunflower seeds
- Strawberries or apple slices for extra sweetness
🥗 Bright, refreshing, and easy to make—this pasta salad is a perfect mix of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory.