This Fresh Spinach Tomato Salad is a burst of colors and flavors! With crisp spinach, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy feta dressing, it’s a salad that makes healthy eating fun.
I love how easy it is to whip this up for lunch. Just toss all the goodies together, and you have a yummy meal in no time. Makes me feel like a salad pro! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is key for this salad’s vibrant color and nutritious punch. If you can’t find baby spinach, regular spinach works too—just chop it finely. Arugula can add a peppery twist!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet cherry tomatoes add sweetness and juiciness. If they’re out of season, use grape tomatoes or even homegrown garden tomatoes for an alternative.
Pasta: Shell pasta gives a fun shape and holds the dressing well. You can swap it with any small pasta like elbow macaroni, fusilli, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Feta Cheese: Creamy feta adds richness. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try using goat cheese. For dairy-free alternatives, crumble firm tofu with a bit of lemon juice!
Red Onion: The sharpness of red onion brightens the salad. If you prefer milder flavor, green onions or shallots can be a great substitute. Soaking onion in cold water helps tame its bite.
How Do You Make the Perfect Dressing for a Salad?
The dressing is essential to tie all the flavors together! It’s super simple to make, and a few tips can elevate it.
- Start with a base of olive oil and vinegar. The ratio of 3:1 (oil to vinegar) generally works well.
- Whisk in dried herbs like oregano and fresh garlic for flavor. Adjust these to your taste. Fresh herbs can really enhance flavor!
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Always taste and adjust! More salt or a squeeze of lemon can brighten it up.
Remember to dress the salad just before serving to keep the veggies crisp. Enjoy your salad adventure!
Fresh Spinach Tomato Salad With Creamy Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz shell pasta (or small pasta shapes)
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh and healthy salad will take you about 20 minutes to prepare. Cooking the pasta might take around 10 minutes, and the rest is simply chopping and mixing. It’s a quick and satisfying dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the shell pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set the pasta aside in a large bowl.
2. Prepare the Veggies:
In the same large bowl, add the chopped baby spinach, quartered cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, diced red bell pepper, and freshly chopped parsley. These colorful vegetables will add crunch and flavor to your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined to create a tasty dressing.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl. Toss everything together thoroughly so that all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Add the Feta:
Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese, being careful not to break it too much. If you like, you can save a little feta to sprinkle on top for garnish!
6. Final Tasting:
Give the salad a taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. You want it to be seasoned just right!
7. Serve or Chill:
You can serve the salad immediately, or if you’d like, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together and taste even better. Enjoy your fresh, nutritious salad!
FAQ for Fresh Spinach Tomato Salad With Creamy Feta
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly from traditional pasta.
Is There a Suitable Substitute for Feta Cheese?
Yes, if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try crumbled tofu mixed with a bit of lemon juice or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Goat cheese is also a fantastic substitute if you prefer a different taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some of the dressing as it sits, so you might want to add a splash of olive oil and vinegar when you reheat or serve it again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Salad?
Certainly! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Cucumbers, carrots, or even avocados make excellent additions. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients!
