Description
This Creamy Strawberry Feta Pasta Salad combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors perfectly for a refreshing and vibrant dish. Featuring fresh strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and a creamy dressing tossed with tender pasta and crisp greens, this salad is ideal for warm-weather gatherings or as a light, satisfying meal any time. The delightful contrast of textures and flavors makes it an irresistible summer favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta and Salad Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 4 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, fresh sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and baby spinach or mixed greens.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the creamy dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated and well combined.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serve chilled as a refreshing main dish or side salad.
Notes
- Use rotini or any short pasta that holds dressing well.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Fresh strawberries are essential for the best flavor, but frozen can be used if thawed and drained.
- Add toasted nuts like almonds or pecans for extra crunch.
- This salad is best served the same day but can be refrigerated up to 1 day.