This bright and colorful salad is packed with fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and crumbly feta cheese. It’s fresh, tasty, and super quick to whip up!
Honestly, if it weren’t for the feta, I’d just be eating leaves! 😂 I love tossing this salad together and enjoying it as a light meal or a tasty side.
It’s so easy to make! Just chop and mix everything. Plus, it feels great knowing I’m eating something healthy and delicious in minutes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orecchiette or Shell Pasta: These pasta shapes are great for holding the dressing and mixing well with the vegetables. If these aren’t available, feel free to use any other short pasta like elbow macaroni or rotini!
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds a nice green base and nutrients. Baby spinach is softer, but regular spinach can work too; just chop it smaller. No spinach? Arugula or kale make excellent substitutes.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring juicy sweetness. You can use grape tomatoes as an alternative, or if tomatoes aren’t in season, substitute with finely chopped bell peppers for crunch.
Feta Cheese: Feta offers creaminess and tang. If you want a lighter option, try crumbled goat cheese or even cubed fresh mozzarella. For a dairy-free option, use almond feta or other vegan cheese!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta correctly is crucial for a delicious salad. Here are some tips:
- Always add enough salt to your boiling water; it should taste like the sea. This flavors the pasta as it cooks.
- Test for doneness a minute or two before the package time. It should be tender but still have a bit of bite (al dente).
- Rinsing under cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from getting mushy. Make sure to shake off excess water before adding it to your salad.
How to Make Easy Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) orecchiette pasta or shell pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an optional chilling time of 30 minutes. If you include the chilling time, plan for about 45 minutes total. This makes it a perfect quick and fresh option for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the orecchiette or shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the pasta cooks, grab a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the chopped fresh spinach, halved or quartered cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This dressing will bring all the flavors of the salad together!
4. Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
Now, pour the cooled pasta into the bowl with the vegetables. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated.
5. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and give it another gentle toss. Be careful not to break up the feta too much; you want nice, chunky pieces in your salad!
6. Adjust Seasoning:
Take a taste of your salad! If you find it needs more flavor, feel free to add a bit more salt, pepper, or vinegar to your liking.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, you can serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch. Alternatively, if you prefer, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy spinach tomato salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While orecchiette and shell pasta work great, you can use any short pasta like penne or rotini. Just make sure to cook it to an al dente texture for the best results.
How Can I Keep the Salad Fresh for Later?
To keep the salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the vegetables from wilting.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a substitute, goat cheese or even fresh mozzarella can be great alternatives. For a dairy-free option, try using almond-based feta or a vegan cheese of your choice!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. You can add ingredients like cucumbers, olives, or even grilled chicken for extra protein. Feel free to customize it to your taste!
