Spring Spinach Strawberry Pasta Salad

This Spring Spinach Strawberry Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish featuring tender bow-tie pasta, fresh baby spinach, and sweet strawberries. Tossed in a tangy homemade poppy seed dressing, it is the perfect addition to any spring or summer gathering.

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The beauty of this salad lies in the contrast of textures, from the tender farfalle to the crunch of toasted almonds. The homemade dressing ties everything together with a delightful tang that highlights the sweetness of the seasonal fruit.

Ingredients

• Pasta
• 250 g (8 oz) bow-tie (farfalle) pasta
• Salad
• 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach, washed and dried
• 200 g (7 oz) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 50 g (1/3 cup) sliced almonds, toasted
• 60 g (1/2 cup) crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, thinly sliced (optional)
• Poppy Seed Dressing
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp poppy seeds
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool completely.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3

In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled pasta, baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and toasted almonds.

Step 4

Drizzle with the poppy seed dressing and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5

Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil, if using. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Ensure that the pasta is completely cooled before combining it with the spinach to prevent the leaves from wilting. Rinsing the cooked pasta under cold water helps stop the cooking process immediately.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, simply omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese. You can add extra protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas, or try using walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different flavor profile.

Serviervorschläge

This salad pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled rosé. To keep the ingredients at their freshest and crispiest, it is best served immediately after tossing with the dressing.

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With its bright colors and balanced flavor profile, this Spring Spinach Strawberry Pasta Salad is sure to become a seasonal favorite for both casual meals and festive occasions.

Questions & Answers

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving. Cook and cool the pasta, wash and dry the spinach, and make the dressing up to 4 hours ahead. Combine everything 15-20 minutes before eating to prevent the spinach from wilting.

→ What can I use instead of bow-tie pasta?

Any medium pasta shape works well. Try penne, fusilli, or rotini. Shell pasta is also excellent for capturing the poppy seed dressing.

→ Is this suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely. The salad is naturally vegetarian. For vegans, omit the feta cheese or substitute with plant-based alternatives.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible and drizzle before serving to maintain crispness.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely. Grilled chicken breast, chickpeas, white beans, or crispy tofu are excellent additions. For best results, add protein after dressing to maintain texture.

→ What makes the poppy seed dressing special?

The combination of apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard creates a balanced sweet and tangy flavor. Poppy seeds add texture and a subtle nutty undertone that complements the fresh ingredients perfectly.