This Spinach Basil Pasta Salad is a fresh and healthy dish that combines the vibrant flavors of spinach and basil with pasta, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese. It's a perfect side dish for summer picnics or potlucks, and it can also be enjoyed as a light and satisfying main course. The salad is tossed with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette dressing that enhances the taste of the ingredients. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with its vibrant tastes!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to prepare the dressing.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled as a side dish or main course.
Interesting Facts
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K.
Basil has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
This salad can be customized by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.