This bright and refreshing salad combines fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and crumbly feta cheese. It’s light, healthy, and perfect for a quick bite or a side dish!
I love how this salad comes together in minutes! Just toss everything in a bowl, and voila—dinner is served! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those greens. 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Baby Spinach: Spinach is the star here! It’s tender and packed with nutrients. If you’re out of spinach, any leafy green like arugula or kale can be a fine replacement. Just remember, kale will need a bit of massaging to soften its texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, perfect for salads. You can substitute them with regular tomatoes diced into bite-sized pieces, or even roasted tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
Orecchiette Pasta: Pasta adds heartiness. If you’re looking to keep it gluten-free, try using quinoa or omit it altogether. You can also swap it with another small pasta like fusilli or shells!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice salty creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try using a vegan feta alternative. Crumbled goat cheese can also work well if you prefer a milder flavor.
How Do You Make Sure the Salad is Well-Mixed and Delicious?
An even mix is key to a great salad. Here’s a simple way to ensure everything gets coated with dressing:
- Use a large, wide bowl to give yourself space to toss.
- Start by combining all the dry ingredients first—spinach, tomatoes, pasta, onion, and parsley.
- Add the feta last, as it can break up too much if you mix it too early.
- When pouring the dressing, drizzle it all over instead of in one spot. This helps to coat your ingredients evenly.
- Gently toss everything with two spoons or your hands for a thorough mix without crushing the veggies.
Letting the salad rest for 15-30 minutes will allow the flavors to really come together. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Easy Spinach Tomato Salad With Feta Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Base:
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1 cup cooked orecchiette pasta (optional)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you choose to chill it in the fridge to enhance the flavors, you can do that for an additional 15-30 minutes. So, you’ll be enjoying a fresh, delicious salad in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta (if using):
If you decided on using the orecchiette pasta, cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool down.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped baby spinach, quartered cherry tomatoes, cooled pasta (if using), finely diced red onion, and chopped parsley. These fresh ingredients will create a vibrant and colorful base for your salad!
3. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of your mixed ingredients. This will add a lovely tangy flavor that balances well with the other ingredients.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a delicious dressing to enhance your salad!
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture, then toss everything gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to crush the feta too much!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Take a quick taste test! If you feel it needs more salt, pepper, or acidity (from the lemon juice or vinegar), just add a little more until it’s perfect for your taste!
7. Serve or Chill:
You can serve this salad immediately for a fresh crunch, or you can let it chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. Chilling can help the flavors blend even better!
This salad offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures—crisp spinach, sweet tomatoes, tangy feta, and zippy dressing all come together for a refreshing dish. Enjoy your lovely creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Greens in This Salad?
Absolutely! While spinach is a fantastic choice, you can also use other leafy greens like arugula, mixed greens, or kale. If you use kale, just remember to massage it gently to soften its texture before mixing.
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
To store any leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days. If the salad has dressing on it, the greens may wilt, so consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta alternative. You can also add some avocado for creaminess!
What Other Ingredients Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to customize this salad! You could add ingredients like sliced olives, bell peppers, cucumber, avocado, or roasted chickpeas for extra protein. Fresh herbs like basil or mint could also give it a unique twist!
