Description
This Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or potlucks. Featuring sweet strawberries, tender spinach, and bow tie pasta, it’s tossed in a tangy homemade poppy seed dressing that ties all the flavors together. Light, healthy, and easy to make, this salad is sure to become a favorite at any event!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
1 lb bow tie pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
3 cups baby spinach (chopped)
1 lb strawberries (sliced)
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
3/4 cup raspberry vinegar or cider vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
3 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
3 teaspoons cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
3/4 teaspoon onion powder
3/4 teaspoon mustard powder
3 teaspoons poppy seeds
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool completely. -
Prepare the Dressing:
In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, honey, olive oil, cornstarch, salt, onion powder, mustard powder, and poppy seeds. Bring to a boil while whisking constantly. Once thickened (about 30 seconds), remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. -
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped spinach, and sliced strawberries. -
Dress the Salad:
Once the dressing has cooled, pour it over the salad and gently fold to coat evenly. -
Serve:
Serve immediately, or chill for an extra refreshing dish before serving.
Notes
- Pasta Choices: Bow tie pasta (farfalle) holds the dressing well, but feel free to use other pasta types.
- Sweetness: Adjust the honey amount to your preference for sweetness.
- Make-Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours ahead, allowing flavors to meld. Keep it chilled until ready to serve.
- Add-ins: Toss in nuts like almonds or walnuts, or cheese like feta or goat cheese for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
