This quick salad is fresh and bright, filled with crunchy spinach, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese. It’s a tasty way to get your greens!
I love how easy it is to whip up this salad. Just toss the ingredients together, add a drizzle of olive oil, and boom—healthy and delicious! Perfect for any meal! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is the best choice for this salad, as it’s tender, mild, and full of nutrients. If you can’t find it, kale or arugula can also work, but they may change the flavor a bit.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes add a sweet burst of flavor. If you prefer larger tomatoes, feel free to chop a regular tomato into bite-sized pieces instead. You can also substitute with sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste.
Feta Cheese: This cheese gives the salad its creamy and tangy kick. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try using reduced-fat feta or even goat cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, check out vegan feta options available.
Pasta: Adding small pasta shells is optional but nice for texture. If avoiding carbs, omit the pasta or replace it with quinoa or chickpeas for a heartier salad!
How Do You Make the Dressing Without It Getting Too Oily?
Creating a balanced dressing is key! To prevent your dressing from becoming too oily, make sure to use equal parts vinegar (or lemon juice) to oil. This keeps the flavors balanced and bright without overwhelming the salad.
- Start with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Adjust based on your taste preferences.
- Whisk or shake the dressing well before adding it to the salad to ensure it emulsifies, giving you a smooth mix that coats your greens.
- A touch of salt in the dressing helps to enhance the overall flavor.
Applying these tips will help you pull together a refreshing salad that everyone will love! Enjoy making your Easy Spinach Tomato Salad!
Easy Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cooked small pasta shells (optional, for added texture and bulk)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 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 10 minutes to prepare and can be served immediately or chilled for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. It’s quick, fresh, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, add the roughly chopped spinach, halved cherry or grape tomatoes, cooked small pasta shells if you’re using them, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. This colorful mix is what makes the salad vibrant and inviting!
2. Prepare 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. This dressing should be mixed well to ensure all the flavors come together smoothly.
3. Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly. You want each bite to be flavorful!
4. Adjust the Flavors:
Take a moment to taste your salad. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar as desired. This is your salad, so make it just how you like it!
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes for a cooler, more refreshing experience. Perfect as a side or light main dish!
This Easy Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. Enjoy the crunch of the fresh spinach and the burst of sweet tomatoes with creamy feta that brings everything together. Happy eating!
FAQ for Easy Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
While fresh spinach is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen spinach if needed. Make sure to thoroughly thaw and drain it to remove excess moisture before adding it to the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for feta cheese, you can use crumbled goat cheese, ricotta, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you need a vegan option. Each will provide a different flavor profile but will still complement the salad well.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the spinach may wilt, and the dressing could make the pasta soggy. To maintain freshness, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding other fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocados. Just chop them to a similar size to keep the texture consistent. Get creative based on what you enjoy!
