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National Pinot Grigio Day: Spinach, Olive, and Feta Pasta Salad with Spinach


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  • Author: Dianna Muscari
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Diet: Vegetarian, Omnivore

Description

A bright, fresh pasta salad perfect for summer. Citrus vinaigrette and toasted pine nuts add extra flavor.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 227 g (8 oz) bow tie pasta {farfalle}
  • 1 1/2 cups (355 ml) fresh chopped spinach
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) chopped kalamata olives
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) lightly toasted pine nuts
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar
  • 1 small clove garlic (grated or minced)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the farfalle until al dente according to package directions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and transfer to a large bowl.
  2. Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, shaking the pan often, until lightly golden. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
  3. Make the citrus vinaigrette: in a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, grated orange zest, orange juice, white balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic until emulsified. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. Add the chopped spinach, sliced kalamata olives, and crumbled feta to the bowl with the pasta. Pour the vinaigrette over everything and toss gently to combine.
  5. Scatter the toasted pine nuts on top. Serve at room temperature or chilled. This salad holds up well for potlucks and can be made a few hours ahead.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the vinaigrette.
  • If you don’t have pine nuts, substitute with toasted slivered almonds or walnuts.
  • To prevent the pasta salad from becoming soggy, add the dressing just before serving or store the dressing separately and toss right before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 300
  • Fat: 25
  • Saturated Fat: 5
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18
  • Carbohydrates: 50
  • Fiber: 4
  • Protein: 10
  • Cholesterol: 10