Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad

Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad is a fresh, colorful, and delicious summer dish that combines sweet strawberries, tender pasta, crisp spinach, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta cheese. Tossed in a light strawberry vinaigrette dressing, this easy pasta salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, and warm-weather lunches. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes every bite refreshing and satisfying.

Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad

This Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad combines fresh strawberries, spinach, feta cheese, pecans, and pasta in a light strawberry vinaigrette for a refreshing summer dish.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Chill Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 people

Calories: 340

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 4 cups baby spinach
• 2 cups fresh strawberries sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
• Dressing
• 1/3 cup strawberry vinaigrette
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

 

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool completely before assembling the salad.
2. While the pasta cools, wash and dry the baby spinach. Hull and slice the strawberries into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion and roughly chop the pecans if needed.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the strawberry vinaigrette, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped pecans. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly without crushing the berries.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss carefully until all ingredients are lightly coated. Add additional dressing if desired for a more flavorful salad.
6. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend together while keeping the spinach fresh and crisp.
7. Give the salad one final gentle toss before serving. Garnish with extra strawberries, feta, and pecans for a beautiful presentation.

Notes

• This salad is best served fresh since spinach can wilt if dressed too far in advance.
• For meal prep, store the dressing separately and toss everything together just before serving.
• Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.
• Use ripe but firm strawberries to maintain their shape in the salad.

Variations

• Substitute goat cheese for the feta cheese for a creamier texture.
• Use candied pecans for extra sweetness and crunch.
• Add grilled chicken for a heartier main dish.
• Mix in blueberries or raspberries for additional berry flavor.
• Replace spinach with arugula for a peppery twist.
• Add avocado slices just before serving.
• Include cucumber for extra freshness and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches for an easy summer meal. It pairs beautifully with barbecue dishes and makes a refreshing addition to picnic spreads. This pasta salad is also excellent as a light lunch on its own or served with crusty bread.

Tips

• Cool the pasta completely before adding the spinach.
• Dry the spinach thoroughly to prevent a watery salad.
• Add the dressing shortly before serving for maximum freshness.
• Chill the salad for 15 to 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
• Taste and adjust the dressing sweetness with extra honey if needed.
• Toast pecans for deeper flavor.
• Garnish just before serving for the freshest presentation.

Prep Time / Cook Time / Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

Serves: 6–8 people

Nutritional Info (Approx.)

Calories: 340 per serving

Protein: 8g

Carbohydrates: 38g

Fat: 18g

Fiber: 4g

Sugar: 9g

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, but for the freshest texture, keep the dressing separate and combine everything shortly before serving.

What type of pasta works best?

Rotini is ideal because it holds the dressing well, but bowtie, penne, or fusilli also work great.

Can I use another cheese besides feta?

Absolutely. Goat cheese, mozzarella pearls, or even blue cheese are delicious alternatives.

How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

It is best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days. After that, the spinach may begin to wilt.

Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?

Yes. Grilled chicken, turkey, shrimp, or even salmon pair wonderfully with this salad.

Conclusion

Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of sweet strawberries, fresh spinach, creamy feta, crunchy pecans, and tender pasta. Easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors, this salad is ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, meal prep, or a refreshing family meal. Its colorful presentation and delicious taste make it a guaranteed crowd favorite.