Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad Fresh and Flavorful Treat

October 31, 2025March 22, 2025 by Chloe

Looking to brighten up your meal with something fresh and tasty? My Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad is the perfect choice! Bursting with vibrant colors and delicious flavors, it combines pasta, sweet strawberries, and nutritious spinach. This easy recipe will wow your family and friends and make any meal feel special. Ready to dive into a delightful dish? Let’s explore the simple steps and ingredients!

Why I Love This Recipe

Fresh and Vibrant: This salad combines fresh spinach and juicy strawberries, creating a colorful and appealing dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up this salad in no time, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with vitamins from the spinach and antioxidants from the strawberries, this salad is a healthy addition to your meals.
Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a flexible recipe for any palate.

Ingredients

To make a Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad, you need a few simple ingredients. Each one adds flavor and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 8 oz rotini pasta

– 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried

– 1 cup strawberries, sliced

– ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

– ¼ cup walnuts, roughly chopped

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

– 1 tablespoon honey

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Each ingredient plays a key role. The rotini pasta gives a nice bite. Fresh spinach adds a crisp green touch. Strawberries bring a sweet burst of flavor. Feta cheese adds a creamy, salty taste that balances the salad. Walnuts provide crunch and healthy fats.

The dressing brings it all together. Olive oil and balsamic vinegar create a tangy mix. Honey adds a hint of sweetness, while salt and pepper enhance the flavors. Basil leaves are a fresh finish that makes the salad pop.

Using fresh ingredients makes this dish shine. You can easily find them at your local market. Feel free to adjust any ingredient to suit your taste. Add more strawberries for sweetness or extra walnuts for crunch. This recipe is all about enjoying fresh, vibrant flavors!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

– Boiling Salted Water: Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a good amount of salt. This helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Bring the water to a rolling boil.

– Cooking Time for Rotini: Add the rotini pasta to the boiling water. Check the package for the recommended cooking time. Usually, it takes about 8 to 10 minutes for al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

– Rinsing Pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander. Rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta for your salad.

Making the Dressing

– Ingredients for Dressing: Gather your dressing items. You need olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.

– Whisking Instructions: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a whisk to mix until smooth and well blended.

Combining Ingredients

– Mixing the Salad Components: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta. Then, toss in the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts.

– Dressing Application: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Make sure to coat everything evenly for the best flavor.

– Tossing the Salad: Gently toss the salad to mix all the ingredients well. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Tips & Tricks

Storage Tips

Best Refrigeration Practices

Store your strawberry spinach pasta salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh longer. You can enjoy it for up to three days.

How to Keep Fresh Ingredients Crisp

To keep spinach crisp, add it just before serving. This prevents it from wilting. Also, avoid mixing in the dressing until you’re ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Serving Dishes

A large, shallow bowl works best for your salad. This allows the bright colors to shine. You can also use a platter for a more festive look.

Complementary Dishes

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.

Adjusting Flavors

Balancing Sweetness and Tang

If you want more sweetness, add a bit more honey. For extra tang, try a splash of lemon juice. Taste as you go to find the perfect mix.

Customizing with Extra Ingredients

You can add other fruits like blueberries or peaches. Try different nuts like pecans for a new crunch. Get creative and make it your own!

Pro Tips

Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the rotini pasta al dente for the best texture. It will hold up better in the salad and not become mushy.
Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest spinach and strawberries you can find to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your salad.
Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to substitute walnuts with your favorite nuts, like pecans or almonds, for a different flavor profile.
Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or toss in some sliced red onions for added crunch and flavor.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

– Alternative Pasta Choices

You can swap rotini for other pasta types. Try bowtie, penne, or even whole wheat pasta. Each will give a new twist to your salad.

– Different Cheeses

Feta cheese adds a salty kick, but you can use goat cheese or mozzarella instead. Both bring unique flavors that blend well with the other ingredients.

– Other Nut Options

If walnuts are not your favorite, try pecans or almonds. They provide a nice crunch and add different tastes to your salad.

Dietary Adjustments

– Vegan Options

To make this salad vegan, skip the cheese. You can add avocado for creaminess and maybe some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

– Gluten-Free Alternatives

Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free dish. Many brands offer great options that taste just as good.

Seasonal Additions

– Seasonal Fruits

In summer, use peaches or blueberries instead of strawberries. In fall, consider adding apples or pears to keep the salad fresh and exciting.

– Herb Variations

Fresh herbs like mint or cilantro can elevate your salad. They add brightness and a fresh taste that complements the strawberries and spinach.

Nutritional Information

Macros Overview

– Total Calories: This salad has about 300 calories per serving.

– Fats: It contains around 18 grams of fat, mostly from walnuts and olive oil.

– Proteins: You get about 8 grams of protein mainly from feta cheese and walnuts.

– Carbs: The salad has around 30 grams of carbs, thanks to the pasta and fruits.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

– Spinach: Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. It helps with eye health and boosts your immune system.

– Strawberries: These berries are full of antioxidants. They help fight inflammation and support heart health.

– Walnuts: Walnuts provide healthy fats and protein. They also support brain health and can lower cholesterol.

This combination of ingredients makes the Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad not only tasty but also nutritious. Enjoying this salad gives you a healthy dose of vitamins while satisfying your taste buds.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. However, fresh strawberries taste better. Frozen berries release more juice. This can make the salad watery. If you use frozen ones, let them thaw first. Drain any excess juice before adding them to your salad.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

The salad lasts for about 3 days in the fridge. Keep it in a sealed container. Over time, the spinach may wilt. The strawberries might lose their texture too. For best taste, eat it within the first two days.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

You can make the salad ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate. Mix it in just before serving. This way, the salad stays fresh and crisp. It’s perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

What dressing pairs well with this salad?

The dressing in this recipe is perfect. It uses olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. This mix gives a nice sweet and tangy flavor. You can also try a light vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing for a twist.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. It holds up well in the fridge. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat. This keeps everything fresh and tasty.

This blog post covered a delightful salad made from rotini pasta, fresh spinach, strawberries, and other tasty ingredients. You learned how to cook the pasta, make the dressing, and combine it all into a refreshing dish. We explored tips for storage, serving, and adjusting flavors to fit your taste. Variations and substitutions make this recipe adaptable for many diets. Enjoy this salad for its flavor and health benefits! It’s simple, fresh, and perfect for any meal. Try it and make it your ow

$To make a Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad, you need a few simple ingredients. Each one adds flavor and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need: - 8 oz rotini pasta - 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried - 1 cup strawberries, sliced - ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled - ¼ cup walnuts, roughly chopped - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar - 1 tablespoon honey - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish Each ingredient plays a key role. The rotini pasta gives a nice bite. Fresh spinach adds a crisp green touch. Strawberries bring a sweet burst of flavor. Feta cheese adds a creamy, salty taste that balances the salad. Walnuts provide crunch and healthy fats. The dressing brings it all together. Olive oil and balsamic vinegar create a tangy mix. Honey adds a hint of sweetness, while salt and pepper enhance the flavors. Basil leaves are a fresh finish that makes the salad pop. Using fresh ingredients makes this dish shine. You can easily find them at your local market. Feel free to adjust any ingredient to suit your taste. Add more strawberries for sweetness or extra walnuts for crunch. This recipe is all about enjoying fresh, vibrant flavors! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Boiling Salted Water: Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a good amount of salt. This helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Bring the water to a rolling boil. - Cooking Time for Rotini: Add the rotini pasta to the boiling water. Check the package for the recommended cooking time. Usually, it takes about 8 to 10 minutes for al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - Rinsing Pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander. Rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta for your salad. - Ingredients for Dressing: Gather your dressing items. You need olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. - Whisking Instructions: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a whisk to mix until smooth and well blended. - Mixing the Salad Components: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta. Then, toss in the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts. - Dressing Application: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Make sure to coat everything evenly for the best flavor. - Tossing the Salad: Gently toss the salad to mix all the ingredients well. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Best Refrigeration Practices Store your strawberry spinach pasta salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh longer. You can enjoy it for up to three days. How to Keep Fresh Ingredients Crisp To keep spinach crisp, add it just before serving. This prevents it from wilting. Also, avoid mixing in the dressing until you're ready to eat. Ideal Serving Dishes A large, shallow bowl works best for your salad. This allows the bright colors to shine. You can also use a platter for a more festive look. Complementary Dishes This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete meal. Balancing Sweetness and Tang If you want more sweetness, add a bit more honey. For extra tang, try a splash of lemon juice. Taste as you go to find the perfect mix. Customizing with Extra Ingredients You can add other fruits like blueberries or peaches. Try different nuts like pecans for a new crunch. Get creative and make it your own! Pro Tips Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the rotini pasta al dente for the best texture. It will hold up better in the salad and not become mushy. Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest spinach and strawberries you can find to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your salad. Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to substitute walnuts with your favorite nuts, like pecans or almonds, for a different flavor profile. Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or toss in some sliced red onions for added crunch and flavor. {{image_2}} - Alternative Pasta Choices You can swap rotini for other pasta types. Try bowtie, penne, or even whole wheat pasta. Each will give a new twist to your salad. - Different Cheeses Feta cheese adds a salty kick, but you can use goat cheese or mozzarella instead. Both bring unique flavors that blend well with the other ingredients. - Other Nut Options If walnuts are not your favorite, try pecans or almonds. They provide a nice crunch and add different tastes to your salad. - Vegan Options To make this salad vegan, skip the cheese. You can add avocado for creaminess and maybe some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. - Gluten-Free Alternatives Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free dish. Many brands offer great options that taste just as good. - Seasonal Fruits In summer, use peaches or blueberries instead of strawberries. In fall, consider adding apples or pears to keep the salad fresh and exciting. - Herb Variations Fresh herbs like mint or cilantro can elevate your salad. They add brightness and a fresh taste that complements the strawberries and spinach. - Total Calories: This salad has about 300 calories per serving. - Fats: It contains around 18 grams of fat, mostly from walnuts and olive oil. - Proteins: You get about 8 grams of protein mainly from feta cheese and walnuts. - Carbs: The salad has around 30 grams of carbs, thanks to the pasta and fruits. - Spinach: Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. It helps with eye health and boosts your immune system. - Strawberries: These berries are full of antioxidants. They help fight inflammation and support heart health. - Walnuts: Walnuts provide healthy fats and protein. They also support brain health and can lower cholesterol. This combination of ingredients makes the Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad not only tasty but also nutritious. Enjoying this salad gives you a healthy dose of vitamins while satisfying your taste buds. Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. However, fresh strawberries taste better. Frozen berries release more juice. This can make the salad watery. If you use frozen ones, let them thaw first. Drain any excess juice before adding them to your salad. The salad lasts for about 3 days in the fridge. Keep it in a sealed container. Over time, the spinach may wilt. The strawberries might lose their texture too. For best taste, eat it within the first two days. You can make the salad ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate. Mix it in just before serving. This way, the salad stays fresh and crisp. It’s perfect for meal prep or gatherings. The dressing in this recipe is perfect. It uses olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. This mix gives a nice sweet and tangy flavor. You can also try a light vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing for a twist. Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. It holds up well in the fridge. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat. This keeps everything fresh and tasty. This blog post covered a delightful salad made from rotini pasta, fresh spinach, strawberries, and other tasty ingredients. You learned how to cook the pasta, make the dressing, and combine it all into a refreshing dish. We explored tips for storage, serving, and adjusting flavors to fit your taste. Variations and substitutions make this recipe adaptable for many diets. Enjoy this salad for its flavor and health benefits! It’s simple, fresh, and perfect for any meal. Try it and make it your own!$