This bright and fresh spinach tomato salad is a treat for your taste buds! Tossed with creamy feta cheese, it’s light and full of flavor—perfect for any meal.
I love how quick it is to make this salad. Just chop, mix, and enjoy! It’s my go-to dish when I want something healthy and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is fantastic for this salad. If you can’t find baby spinach, regular spinach works too; just chop it into smaller pieces. You could also try arugula for a peppery twist!
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, perfect for salads. If you don’t have them, diced regular tomatoes or even halved grape tomatoes can work well. For a burst of flavor, try sun-dried tomatoes instead!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tanginess. If you’re vegan, consider using crumbled tofu or a vegan feta alternative. Goat cheese is also great if you prefer a softer cheese.
Pasta: Adding pasta makes this salad more filling. You can substitute with whole grain or gluten-free pasta as needed, or skip it for a lower-carb option. Quinoa is another fantastic alternative!
Dried Oregano: This herb complements the other flavors beautifully. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning or fresh basil can be a good substitute. Fresh herbs add a lovely freshness, so feel free to mix it up!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Salad Dressing?
The dressing is key to bringing the salad together! Here’s how to make sure it’s full of flavor:
- In a small bowl or jar, start by mixing the olive oil and acid (red wine vinegar or lemon juice). This balances the richness of the oil.
- Add in the oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well combined. Taste and adjust! If it’s too tangy, a pinch of sugar can help balance it out.
- Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving. This keeps the veggies fresh and crunchy!
Letting the salad sit with the dressing for 15-30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be careful not to let it sit too long if you want to keep the spinach crisp!
Easy Spinach Tomato Salad With Feta Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup cooked pasta shells (optional, as seen in the image)
Dressing:
- 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 is quick and easy to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and cooking the pasta (if using). If you choose to let it chill, add another 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. In total, expect around 25-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta (if using):
Start by cooking the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This helps prevent it from cooking further. Set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped baby spinach and the quartered cherry tomatoes. If you’re using pasta, add it to the bowl as well. Next, add the finely chopped red onion and chopped parsley to the mix.
3. Add the Feta Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over your salad. The creamy feta adds a delightful tang and richness to each bite.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined. This dressing is the perfect complement to the fresh vegetables!
5. Combine the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to mash the feta; you want to keep those lovely chunks!
6. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste your salad and add more salt or pepper if needed. A little extra seasoning can really enhance the flavor!
7. Serve or Chill:
Your salad is now ready to enjoy! You can serve it immediately for a fresh, crunchy dish. If you’d like the flavors to come together more, cover the salad and chill it in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before serving.
This Easy Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese is fresh, colorful, and packed with Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy this delightful mix of creamy feta, vibrant tomatoes, and crisp spinach at your next meal!
FAQ About Easy Spinach Tomato Salad With Feta Cheese
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the spinach from wilting. Once dressed, it’s best enjoyed within a day for optimal freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives to feta, you can use goat cheese for a similar creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, crumbled tofu or a vegan feta cheese are great choices as well.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad. Adding ingredients like cucumber, bell peppers, or avocados can enhance its freshness and nutrition. You can also toss in nuts or seeds for extra crunch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you’ve dressed it already, it’s best to eat it within that timeframe. If the spinach starts to wilt, you could use leftovers in a wrap or sandwich!
