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Cranberry Feta Bowtie Salad with Spinach Recipe

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4.1 from 12 reviews

This Cranberry Feta Bowtie Salad with Spinach is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a healthy lunch. It combines tender bowtie pasta, fresh baby spinach and arugula, tangy cranberries, sweet golden raisins, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty Dijon vinaigrette dressing for a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 pound bowtie pasta
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup golden raisins
  • 1/2 cup walnut halves
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 1 pound of bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and allow it to cool completely.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled bowtie pasta, 2 cups baby spinach, 2 cups arugula, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, 1/4 cup golden raisins, 1/2 cup walnut halves, and 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt until well mixed. Slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup olive oil while whisking constantly to emulsify the dressing.
  4. Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the desired amount of the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Adjust the amount of dressing to taste.

Notes

  • Make sure the pasta is fully cooled before mixing with spinach and arugula to prevent wilting.
  • You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds according to preference.
  • This salad can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but is best served fresh.
  • Add grilled chicken or tofu for added protein if desired.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by varying the honey quantity.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian