Spinach & Dill Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spinach & Dill Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of fresh, bright flavors and creamy textures. The combination of spinach, dill, and pasta makes it a satisfying yet light dish that’s perfect for warm weather. The tangy dressing ties everything together beautifully, and the dish can be made in advance for easy meal prep. It’s an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or as a quick and healthy lunch. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and packed with vitamins and nutrients, making it a delicious and wholesome addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or rotini)

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried dill)

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave syrup)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, avocado, or toasted nuts/seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down quickly.

2. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, chop the spinach, dill, red onion, and cucumber. Set aside.

3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Combine the pasta and veggies: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the chopped spinach, dill, red onion, and cucumber.

5. Add the dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing everything together to coat evenly.

6. Chill and serve: For best results, refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also makes it a great dish for meal prep.

7. Serve chilled, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

• Add Protein: For added protein, toss in some chickpeas, grilled tofu, or vegan feta cheese.

• More Veggies: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.

• Creamier Version: If you prefer a creamier salad, you can add a spoonful of vegan yogurt, cashew cream, or tahini to the dressing.

• Nuts and Seeds: Add toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pine nuts for a little crunch and healthy fats.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerating: This pasta salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for pasta salad, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change upon thawing.

FAQs

1. Can I use other herbs instead of dill?

Yes, you can substitute dill with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro for a different flavor profile. However, dill pairs best with the lemony dressing in this recipe.

2. Can I use any type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as farfalle, fusilli, or elbow macaroni. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.

3. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time. It actually tastes better after chilling in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

4. Can I make the dressing without mustard?

Yes, if you don’t like mustard, you can omit it or substitute it with a small amount of tahini for creaminess or a little extra vinegar for tanginess.

5. Is this pasta salad gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free by default, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

6. Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, you can add vegan cheese or regular feta cheese to the salad if you prefer a richer, more savory flavor.

7. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Fresh spinach works best in this recipe, but if you have frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the salad.

8. Can I make this pasta salad spicy?

Yes, if you like spice, you can add a chopped jalapeño, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

9. Can I add fruit to this salad?

For a sweet contrast, try adding fresh fruit like apple slices, raisins, or even pomegranate seeds for a burst of freshness.

10. Can I eat this pasta salad warm?

While this pasta salad is best served chilled, you can eat it warm if you prefer. However, chilling it helps the flavors meld together and improves the texture of the pasta.

Conclusion

Spinach & Dill Pasta Salad is a vibrant, fresh, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a light meal or side dish. The combination of fresh spinach, dill, and a tangy dressing makes for a satisfying and healthy meal. This salad is versatile, quick, and can be customized with your favorite add-ins like vegetables, nuts, or protein. Whether you make it for lunch, a picnic, or a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy this delicious, refreshing pasta salad!