Spinach Pasta Salad

Spinach Pasta Salad is a light, fresh, and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Bowtie pasta is tossed with crisp baby spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and red onion, then drizzled with a simple homemade vinaigrette and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Whether served as a main or a side dish, this salad is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Fresh and Healthy: Packed with veggies and heart-healthy olive oil.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for potlucks, picnics, lunches, or weeknight dinners.
• Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or veggies to make it your own.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after chilling for a bit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 ounces bowtie pasta
4 cups fresh baby spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
2. Mix the Salad
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Make the Dressing
   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Toss and Combine
   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Add Cheese
   Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and give it one final toss.
6. Serve
   Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make it a full meal.
• Swap the Pasta: Use penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta.
• Add More Veggies: Cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives are great additions.
• Cheese Options: Try feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella balls instead of Parmesan.
• Go Creamy: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or mayo for a creamy version.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Herb Boost: Fresh basil, parsley, or dill can enhance the flavor.
• Vegan Version: Omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Nutty Twist: Add pine nuts, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for crunch.
• Pesto Spin: Replace the vinaigrette with a few tablespoons of pesto for a flavor upgrade.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the spinach and pasta may become mushy upon thawing.
Make-Ahead: Best made the day of or the night before. Add spinach just before serving for maximum freshness.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dish. Just toss in the spinach and Parmesan right before serving for the best texture.

What type of pasta works best?

Bowtie pasta is great for holding dressing, but you can use any short pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli.

Can I use bottled dressing?

Homemade dressing tastes fresher, but you can use your favorite Italian or balsamic vinaigrette in a pinch.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it is completely vegetarian as written.

How do I keep the spinach from wilting?

Add the spinach just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Can I serve it warm?

This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature, but you can serve it warm if preferred.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

How do I add more protein?

Add grilled chicken, tuna, beans, or tofu to make it more filling.

Can I use other types of vinegar?

Yes, balsamic or white wine vinegar can be used instead of red wine vinegar.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate and mix right before serving for best results.

Conclusion

Spinach Pasta Salad is a quick, delicious, and colorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its balance of tender pasta, crisp veggies, and zesty homemade vinaigrette, it delivers both flavor and freshness in every bite. Easy to customize and ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a must-have recipe for your salad rotation.

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