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+ servings
Clara Whitley

Zesty Spinach Pasta Salad

A refreshing and vibrant pasta salad with spinach, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing that brings a burst of flavor to any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Healthy, Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta (fusilli or rotini)
  • 3 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper (diced, any color)
  • 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese (or vegan option)
  • 1/4 cup olives (sliced, optional)
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (for crunch)
Dressing
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Chop the fresh spinach, halve the cherry tomatoes, and dice the bell pepper and red onion.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake until emulsified.
Mixing
  1. In a large bowl, combine pasta, spinach, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and sunflower seeds. Crumble in feta cheese.
  2. Drizzle the zesty dressing over the top and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Chill
  1. Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to mingle.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3g

Notes

You can store leftovers in the fridge for about 3-4 days in an airtight container. Consider using gluten-free pasta or whole grain options for a healthier twist.

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