This Fresh Spinach Tomato Salad is bright and tasty, packed with crisp spinach and juicy tomatoes. The creamy feta dressing adds a lovely touch that makes it truly special!
I love how easy it is to whip up this salad. Just toss everything together, and you have a refreshing side or light meal ready in minutes! Perfect for any day! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Baby Spinach: This leafy green adds a nice crunch and is packed with nutrients. You can swap it with kale or mixed greens if you prefer something different.
Cherry Tomatoes: They provide sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, use diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor twist.
Orecchiette Pasta: While this pasta shape works well, you can omit it for a low-carb option or replace it with any small pasta like fusilli or macaroni if you’d like a unique texture.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a creamy, tangy taste. For a dairy-free alternative, try using a tofu feta or a dairy-free cheese substitute that crumbles.
Red Onion: Adds sharpness. If it’s too strong for you, green onions or shallots make a milder substitute.
How Do I Make the Dressing Balanced and Flavorful?
The dressing is key to bringing all the flavors together. Start by mixing olive oil with vinegar or lemon juice; this creates the base flavor. The acidity cuts through the creaminess of the feta.
- Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter taste, or balsamic vinegar for a sweeter one.
- Whisk in dried oregano for an earthy flavor that complements the feta.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste. Always taste before adding more!
Let the dressing mingle with the salad for a few minutes before serving. This step boosts the overall flavor!
Fresh Spinach Tomato Salad with Creamy Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cooked orecchiette pasta (optional, as seen in image)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare if you’re using cooked pasta. You’ll spend a little time chopping and mixing, and it’s best to let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Perfect for a quick lunch or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta (if using):
If you’re adding orecchiette pasta, start by cooking it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and let it cool while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Mixing the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and the cooked pasta (if you’re using it). Add the chopped parsley and basil for that fresh herb flavor.
3. Adding the Feta:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad. This will add a creamy and tangy aspect to every bite!
4. Whisking 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 blended.
5. Tossing It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently. You want every piece of spinach and tomato to be coated with that delicious dressing!
6. Letting It Rest:
Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the fresh ingredients to soak up the dressing flavor.
7. Serving Time!
Enjoy your salad right away! It can be served chilled or at room temperature. This vibrant dish is perfect as a side or a light meal on its own!
This Fresh Spinach Tomato Salad is not only colorful but also bursts with flavors, combining the freshness of spinach and tomatoes with the creamy touch of feta and herbs. Enjoy! 🥗
FAQ for Fresh Spinach Tomato Salad with Creamy Feta
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Spinach?
Absolutely! You can substitute fresh spinach with kale, arugula, or even mixed salad greens. Just keep in mind that each green has its own flavor and texture, so choose according to your preference.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days. However, if you’ve added the dressing, it’s ideal to keep the salad and dressing separate to avoid sogginess.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make the salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta or cashew cheese. This way, you can still enjoy a creamy texture without dairy.
What If I Don’t Have Orecchiette Pasta?
No worries! If you don’t have orecchiette, you can use any small pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even skip the pasta entirely for a lighter salad. The salad will still be delicious!
