Strawberry and Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad Recipe

This delightful strawberry spinach balsamic pasta salad is a fusion of refreshing and tangy flavors. The combination of sweet strawberries, earthy spinach, and robust balsamic vinegar creates a symphony of flavors, while the pasta and feta cheese add a comforting element. This salad is perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as a side dish for gatherings.

Photos of Strawberry and Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad Recipe

All ingredients in this recipe are quite common and should be readily available in your local supermarket. However, one ingredient that may need a little searching is feta cheese. It's a type of brined cheese that originated from Greece. It has a tangy, salty taste and crumbly texture, making it perfect for salads. If you can't find feta cheese, you can replace it with ricotta salata or farmer's cheese.

Ingredients for Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad

Ready pasta penne: These are pre-cooked pasta that can be heated in the microwave for quick preparation. It's a time-saving ingredient without compromising the quality of the dish.

Olive oil: Used as a base for the dressing, it adds a mild fruity flavor.

Balsamic vinegar: Gives the salad its tangy flavor profile and pairs well with the strawberries.

Spinach: Adds a nice crunch and earthy flavor to the salad, not to mention it's packed with nutrients.

Strawberries: They offer a sweet contrast to the tangy balsamic vinegar and salty feta cheese.

Basil leaves: They add a refreshing note and enhance the overall flavor of the salad.

Feta cheese: It adds a salty tangy flavor and a creamy texture to the salad.

One reader, Gawain Yoo says:

This strawberry spinach balsamic pasta salad recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet strawberries, fresh spinach, and tangy balsamic dressing is a burst of flavors. It's a delightful and refreshing dish that's perfect for a light lunch or as a side. I highly recommend trying it out!

Gawain Yoo

Techniques Required for Making Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad

How to prepare the pasta: Heat the ready pasta in the microwave for one minute, then pour it onto a dish and allow it to cool.

How to make the balsamic vinaigrette: In a bowl, combine olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to toss the salad: Combine the ready pasta, spinach, strawberries, and basil in a bowl, then toss to mix the ingredients evenly.

How to garnish with feta cheese: Sprinkle the feta cheese over the salad before serving.

How To Make Strawberry and Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad

This bright and fruity pasta salad has strawberries, basil, spinach and balsamic vinegar mixed with al dente penne pasta. Perfect for a quick, light lunch.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 1 minute

Total: 6 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1pouchBarilla® Ready Pasta Penne
2tbspolive oil
2tbspbalsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper,to taste
½cupspinach
½cupstrawberries,quartered
2basil leaves,chopped
¼cupfeta cheese,crumbled

Instructions

Tear corner of Ready Pasta pouch to vent. Heat in the microwave for one minute.
Pour pasta onto a dish and allow to cool.
In a bowl, combine olive oil and balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add Ready Pasta, spinach, strawberries, and basil and toss.
Garnish with feta cheese. Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 388.13kcal
Fat: 18.77g
Saturated Fat: 4.90g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.90g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.99g
Carbohydrates: 44.14g
Fiber: 3.26g
Sugar: 5.73g
Protein: 10.25g
Cholesterol: 16.69mg
Sodium: 499.73mg
Calcium: 122.73mg
Potassium: 192.55mg
Iron: 1.35mg
Vitamin A: 60.49µg
Vitamin C: 24.54mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Preparing This Pasta Salad Recipe

To ensure your pasta salad has the best flavor, make sure to use fresh ingredients. Fresh spinach and strawberries will not only taste better, but they will also add a vibrant color to your dish. Additionally, when adding the balsamic vinegar and olive oil, drizzle it over the salad instead of pouring it all in one spot. This will help to evenly distribute the dressing and ensure every bite is flavorful.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pasta Salad Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the pasta, wash and chop the spinach, and slice the strawberries in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use ready-made ingredients: Utilize pre-cooked pasta and pre-washed spinach to cut down on preparation time.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a single pot to cook the pasta and spinach together, reducing the number of dishes to clean.

Quick dressing: Opt for a simple dressing with minimal ingredients to save time without compromising flavor.

Efficient assembly: Arrange all ingredients and utensils in an organized manner before starting to assemble the dish for a smoother cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Strawberry and Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad Recipe

barilla® ready pasta penne - Substitute with whole wheat penne: Whole wheat penne is a healthier alternative that adds more fiber and nutrients to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar flavor profile and a higher smoke point, making it a great alternative for cooking.
balsamic vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar provides a slightly tangy flavor similar to balsamic vinegar and can be used in the same quantity.
spinach - Substitute with arugula: Arugula has a peppery flavor that can add a different dimension to the salad while still providing a leafy green base.
strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries offer a similar sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color that complements the salad well.
basil leaves - Substitute with mint leaves: Mint leaves can provide a refreshing and aromatic twist to the salad, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy and creamy texture that can replace feta while adding a unique flavor to the salad.

How to Beautifully Present Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad

Elevate the pasta presentation: Create a visually stunning presentation by arranging the pasta salad in a circular mold on the plate. This will give it a refined and elegant look, perfect for a Michelin-starred dining experience.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Integrate the vibrant colors of the strawberries and spinach to create a visually appealing dish. The contrast of the red strawberries and green spinach will make the dish pop on the plate.
Garnish with precision: Carefully place the crumbled feta cheese on top of the pasta salad, ensuring that it is evenly distributed. This attention to detail will showcase the chef's precision and artistry.
Balance the flavors: Ensure that the balsamic vinaigrette is drizzled delicately over the pasta salad, providing a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. This will elevate the dish and demonstrate a sophisticated flavor profile.
Focus on plate composition: Pay attention to the composition of the plate, ensuring that each element of the dish is thoughtfully placed to create a harmonious and visually appealing arrangement. This meticulous approach will showcase the chef's attention to detail and culinary expertise.
Emphasize the freshness of ingredients: Highlight the freshness of the strawberries and spinach by arranging them in a way that accentuates their natural beauty. This will convey a sense of quality and freshness to the diners.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a visually striking presentation. Allow the natural colors and textures of the dish to stand out against the clean, white backdrop of the plate.
Consider the plate shape and size: Select a plate that complements the dish, considering both the shape and size to ensure that the presentation is visually appealing and balanced.
Add a touch of elegance with basil leaves: Place the basil leaves strategically on the plate to add a touch of elegance and freshness to the overall presentation. The vibrant green color of the basil will enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Highlight the pasta texture: Showcase the texture of the pasta by arranging it in a way that allows the individual penne to be visible, adding a visual and textural element to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Pasta Salad Recipe

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making sauces, dressings, and finely chopping nuts or herbs.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and tossing salads. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, and is a staple for any cooking or baking task.

Storing and Freezing Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad

This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The spinach and strawberries may start to wilt and soften after a day or two, but the flavors will still be delicious.
If you want to make this salad ahead of time, prepare the pasta, vinaigrette, and feta cheese as directed, but store them separately from the spinach and strawberries. When you're ready to serve, toss the ingredients together for a fresh and vibrant salad.
For optimal texture and flavor, add the spinach and strawberries just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
If you have leftover pasta salad, you can refresh it by adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil to brighten up the flavors before serving.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing, as the spinach and strawberries will become mushy and lose their texture when thawed.

How to Reheat Leftover Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad

To reheat leftover strawberry spinach balsamic pasta salad, start by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out during the reheating process.
Microwave the pasta salad on high power for 30-second intervals, stirring gently between each interval. This method ensures even heating and prevents overheating, which can cause the pasta to become mushy or the spinach to wilt excessively.
Alternatively, you can reheat the pasta salad in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or olive oil to the skillet to help loosen the pasta and prevent sticking. Stir the salad gently as it reheats, ensuring that it is evenly warmed through without overcooking the spinach or strawberries.
If you find that the reheated pasta salad has dried out slightly, you can revive it by adding a small amount of olive oil or balsamic vinegar. This will help to restore the original flavor and texture of the salad.
Once the strawberry spinach balsamic pasta salad is heated through, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add a pinch of salt and pepper or a sprinkle of fresh basil to brighten up the flavors.
Serve the reheated pasta salad immediately, garnished with extra feta cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious and conveniently reheated meal!

Interesting Fact About Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad

Balsamic vinegar is a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine and is known for its sweet and tangy flavor. It is often used in salad dressings, marinades, and sauces, adding a unique depth of flavor to dishes.

Is Making Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad Cost-Effective?

This strawberry spinach balsamic pasta salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and readily available, making it an affordable option. The Barilla® Ready Pasta Penne is convenient and saves time, reducing overall cooking costs. The addition of spinach, strawberries, and feta cheese provides a healthy and flavorful touch. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12, making it a budget-friendly choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is This Pasta Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This strawberry spinach balsamic pasta salad recipe offers a mix of healthy and less healthy ingredients. Let's break it down:

Healthy components: The salad includes spinach, a nutrient-dense leafy green rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as strawberries, which provide vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat, and basil adds flavor and potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
Less healthy aspects: The recipe relies on processed pasta, which is lower in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain options. Feta cheese, while adding flavor and calcium, is also high in sodium and saturated fat.

Overall, this salad provides some nutritional benefits but could be improved to maximize its healthfulness.

To elevate the nutritional profile of this pasta salad, consider the following tweaks:

Swap the processed pasta for a whole grain or legume-based alternative to increase fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of feta cheese or opt for a lower-sodium variety to minimize excessive sodium intake
Increase the proportion of spinach and strawberries to boost the salad's vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant content
Add additional colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, to enhance the variety of nutrients and flavors
Experiment with heart-healthy nuts or seeds, like walnuts or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch and beneficial fats

Editor's Opinion on Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad

The combination of sweet strawberries, tangy balsamic, and savory feta in this pasta salad creates a delightful balance of flavors. The addition of spinach adds a fresh and nutritious element to the dish. However, I would suggest adding a touch of honey to the balsamic vinaigrette to enhance the sweetness and balance the acidity. Overall, it's a refreshing and simple recipe that's perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer gathering.

Enhance Your Strawberry and Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until tender and slightly charred.

Garlic Breadsticks: Brush with garlic-infused butter, sprinkle with parmesan cheese, and bake until golden brown and crispy.

Fruit Kabobs: Thread chunks of pineapple, melon, and berries onto skewers for a colorful and refreshing side dish.

Creamy Potato Salad: Mix boiled potatoes with a creamy dressing, chopped celery, and hard-boiled eggs for a classic and satisfying side dish.

Similar Recipes to Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad

Grilled Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This recipe combines the goodness of quinoa with a variety of grilled vegetables, creating a healthy and flavorful salad.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Enjoy the tropical flavors of mango and avocado in this refreshing and zesty salsa, perfect for dipping or topping grilled fish or chicken.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Create a juicy and flavorful roasted chicken with the bright and tangy flavors of lemon and garlic, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Berry Chia Seed Pudding: Indulge in a nutritious and delicious chia seed pudding infused with the sweetness of mixed berries, a perfect guilt-free dessert or breakfast option.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze. A refreshing and light start to any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Strawberry Cheesecake: Treat yourself to a luscious strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping. A delightful dessert for any occasion.

Why trust this Strawberry and Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad Recipe:

This recipe features the convenience of ready pasta, ensuring a quick and hassle-free preparation. The combination of spinach and strawberries offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, while the balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing adds a tangy and savory note. The addition of feta cheese provides a creamy and salty element, enhancing the overall taste. With the freshness of basil and the nutritious goodness of spinach and strawberries, this recipe promises a delightful and wholesome dining experience.

Share your thoughts on the Strawberry and Spinach Balsamic Pasta Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Join the discussion and let us know if you have any tips or variations to this delightful dish!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh pasta instead of ready pasta penne?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh pasta instead. Just cook the fresh pasta according to the package instructions and allow it to cool before using it in the recipe.

Can I substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese, mozzarella, or even grated Parmesan cheese for a different flavor profile.

How long can I store the strawberry spinach balsamic pasta salad?

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just make sure to give it a good toss before serving if it has been refrigerated.

Can I add other fruits to the salad?

Of course! Feel free to get creative and add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches to add more variety and color to the salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can definitely make this salad ahead of time. Just wait to add the dressing and feta cheese until right before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.