Zesty Lemon Spinach Pasta Salad
A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad with fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon dressing, perfect for warm afternoons.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces Pasta Choose your favorite type, such as rotini or penne.
- 4 cups Fresh Spinach Use baby spinach for a tender texture.
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved for a juicy burst of flavor.
- 1/4 cup Red Onion Thinly sliced for a slight crunch and kick.
Dressing
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil The base for your dressing, adding smoothness.
- 1/4 cup Lemon Juice The zesty star that brightens everything.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Simple seasonings that enhance flavor.
Toppings
- 1/2 cup Crushed Nuts For additional crunch and healthy fats.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Preparing Ingredients
- While the pasta is cooking, chop your cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion, and wash the spinach thoroughly.
Making the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well-combined.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large salad bowl, combine the drained pasta with the spinach, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything well.
Serving
- Sprinkle crushed nuts on top for added texture. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Notes
For best results, store the salad in an airtight container and keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. Toss in fresh tomatoes or spinach to refresh leftovers.