Easy Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Spinach: Fresh spinach is key for this salad’s crisp texture. If you don’t have spinach, baby kale or mixed greens work well too. They give a nice crunch and fresh flavor.

Cherry Tomatoes: I love using cherry tomatoes for their sweetness. If they’re out of season, try grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Just make sure they’re ripe for the best taste!

Pasta: Using pasta is optional but it adds a nice heartiness. You can swap in gluten-free pasta or omit it completely if you’re looking for a lighter salad.

Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and a tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu marinated in lemon juice or a nut cheese that mimics feta.

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the best for flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or a blend of oils works nicely too.

How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing?

Getting the dressing just right can transform your salad. Here’s an easy way to ensure a balanced vinaigrette:

• Start with the base of 3 tablespoons of olive oil to 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. This ratio keeps it tasty without being too tangy.
• Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano for depth of flavor. You can also try Italian seasoning!
• Season with salt and pepper, but remember: you can always add more if needed.
• Whisk or shake everything well until it’s combined. If you have a jar, it’s an easy way to mix!

Dress the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. Enjoy making your salad!

Easy Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Salad Components:

• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1 cup cooked pasta shells (optional, for added texture)
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Dressing:

• 3 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 salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, especially if you have your ingredients ready to go. If you include pasta, factor in an extra 10 minutes for cooking and cooling. Altogether, you’ll spend about 25 minutes making a delicious and refreshing salad!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta (If Using):

If you’d like to add pasta for heartiness, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once they’re done, drain them in a colander and rinse with cold water to cool them down. Set the pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:

In a large salad bowl, combine the roughly chopped spinach, quartered cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. These veggies will give your salad a nice variety of colors and flavors!

3. Mix in the Pasta:

If you’re using the cooked pasta, gently add the cooled pasta shells into the bowl with the vegetables. This will help create a more filling dish.

4. Add the Feta and Herbs:

Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and your choice of chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top of the salad. These will add a lovely creaminess and fresh flavor.

5. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until everything is well blended. This will create a tasty dressing to brighten up your salad!

6. Dress the Salad:

Now, drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to bruise the spinach!

7. Taste and Adjust:

Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer it tangier, feel free to add a bit more vinegar or lemon juice. You can also sprinkle in more salt and pepper to suit your taste.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the salad immediately for the freshest experience, or chill it for about 30 minutes in the fridge to let the flavors meld together. Either way, enjoy your delicious, fresh spinach tomato salad with feta cheese!

Can I Use Frozen Spinach for This Salad?

While fresh spinach is best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen spinach if needed. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding it to the salad to avoid a soggy mix.

What Other Vegetables Can I Add?

This salad is very versatile! You can add veggies like cucumber, radishes, or carrots for extra crunch. Feel free to use whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand that complement the other flavors.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

To store any leftover salad, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, it’s best consumed within a day so the spinach and other ingredients don’t become soggy or lose their texture.

Can I Make This Salad Vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan feta alternative. You can also add some avocado for creaminess, or a handful of nuts for added protein!