This spinach tomato salad is fresh, colorful, and super easy to make! It’s packed with nice crunch from the veggies and a creamy kick from the feta cheese.
I love how quick this salad is to whip up—perfect for a busy day! Just toss all the ingredients, and you’ve got a tasty side that even the kids enjoy. 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is great for this salad, but you can easily swap it for any small pasta, like fusilli, rotini, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just make sure to cook it al dente for that perfect bite!
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach gives a nice soft texture. If it’s not available, leafy greens like arugula or mixed greens can work too. Kale is an option, but it should be massaged or chopped finely to soften.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds delicious tanginess to the salad. If it’s not your thing, try goat cheese or even a plant-based feta for a dairy-free choice. Toasted nuts, like almonds, also bring a nice crunch!
Cherry Tomatoes: Any type of fresh tomato works, but cherry tomatoes make it sweet and juicy. Roma or grape tomatoes are good too. During winter months, consider using sun-dried tomatoes for a concentrated flavor.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for My Salad?
The dressing is key to any salad’s success! For this recipe, it’s super simple but packs a punch of flavor. Start by whisking together olive oil and red wine vinegar, or lemon juice if you prefer a fresher taste.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness.
- Adjust the vinegar or lemon juice based on your taste. More acidity brightens the flavors.
- Don’t forget salt and black pepper! They enhance taste, so sprinkle them generously.
- Mix in dried oregano for that herby touch; it’s a classic flavor booster.
Once everything is whisked, pour over your salad right before serving to keep everything crisp!
Easy Spinach Tomato Salad With Feta Cheese
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape)
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 15-30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick and easy salad that you can throw together in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the orecchiette pasta according to the package directions, until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain it and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside to let the water drain completely.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the chopped spinach, quartered cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Give it a gentle toss to combine all the colorful ingredients.
3. Add the Feta and Garlic:
Next, sprinkle the minced garlic over the salad and crumble the feta cheese on top. The garlic adds a delightful flavor, while the creamy feta brings a nice richness.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This dressing is simple, but it complements the salad perfectly!
5. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors start to really come together.
6. Chill the Salad:
After mixing, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. To let the flavors meld beautifully, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve the salad as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even a lovely lunch at home!
This vibrant salad features tender pasta and fresh spinach paired with juicy tomatoes and tangy feta cheese, all brought together with a simple herb vinaigrette for an easy, healthy, and flavorful meal!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Tomato Salad With Feta Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette works well, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like fusilli, rotini, or even whole grain pasta. For a gluten-free option, try rice or quinoa!
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can definitely prepare the salad ahead! Just mix all the ingredients except for the dressing and store in the fridge for up to a day. Add the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
What Should I Do with Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so consider adding a splash of olive oil or vinegar when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Add More Vegetables or Other Ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables like cucumbers, avocados, or olives. You can also incorporate chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein. Have fun experimenting with flavors!
