Go Back
If you’re looking for a dish that epitomizes the essence of summer while also delivering a nutritious punch, look no further than the Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad Delight. This vibrant salad is a delightful medley of flavors and textures that harmoniously come together, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch, a picnic under the sun, or a refreshing side dish at your next summer barbecue.

Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad

Discover the perfect summer dish with the Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad Delight! This vibrant salad combines sweet strawberries, earthy spinach, and hearty whole wheat pasta, topped with creamy feta and crunchy pecans. Packed with nutrients, it's not just visually appealing but also a wholesome meal ideal for lunch, picnics, or barbecues. Follow our step-by-step recipe to create a dish bursting with flavor and health benefits that everyone will love!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 225g) whole wheat rotini pasta

4 cups fresh baby spinach, thoroughly washed and dried

1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced into thin pieces

1/2 cup red onion, finely sliced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled into small pieces

1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped for crunch

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil for richness

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar for tanginess

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for sweetness

Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the whole wheat rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture together until it becomes smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped pecans. Toss the ingredients gently to ensure an even distribution.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta salad. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is beautifully coated with the dressing.

          Serve: For an appealing presentation, transfer the salad onto a serving platter or individual bowls. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch. The salad can be served immediately, or for enhanced flavors, cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving.

            Enjoy: This delightful salad is best enjoyed chilled, making it a perfect light main dish or a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes (if refrigerating) | Servings: 4-6