Vibrant Spinach and Pesto Pasta Salad
This vibrant Spinach and Pesto Pasta Salad is a deliciously refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer with its colorful medley of fresh ingredients. Tossed in a creamy basil pesto dressing, the al dente linguine, crisp spinach, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Perfect as a light main or a zesty side dish, this salad is ideal for picnics, potlucks, or any gathering where healthy, vibrant food is a must. Even those who aren't fans of spinach will find it hard to resist this delightful blend!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cut pastas (linguine)
9 ounces (uncooked)
Refrigerated basil pesto
7 ounces (prepared)
Shredded fresh spinach leaves
5 cups (washed and shredded)
Chopped fresh tomato
1 cup (chopped)
Thinly sliced red onion
1 cup (thinly sliced)
Pine nuts
1/4 cup (lightly toasted, if desired)
Lemon juice
3 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained linguine with the shredded spinach, chopped tomatoes, sliced red onions, and pine nuts, tossing gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
3
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and salt until well combined.
4
Pour the pesto mixture over the pasta and vegetable mix, tossing thoroughly to ensure everything is coated with the dressing.
5
Serve the salad immediately for a fresh taste or cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vibrant Spinach and Pesto Pasta Salad?
It is a refreshing summer dish featuring linguine, fresh spinach, tomatoes, and pine nuts tossed in a creamy basil pesto and lemon dressing.
How many servings does this recipe produce?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
Is this pasta salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is a vegetarian dish as it contains no meat products.
What type of pasta is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 9 ounces of uncooked linguine.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While linguine is recommended, you can substitute other cut pastas like penne or fusilli if preferred.
How much spinach is needed for the salad?
You will need 5 cups of washed and shredded fresh spinach leaves.
What kind of pesto should I use?
The recipe suggests using 7 ounces of refrigerated prepared basil pesto.
Do I need to toast the pine nuts?
Toasting the 1/4 cup of pine nuts is optional but recommended if you desire a nuttier flavor.
How much lemon juice is included in the dressing?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Is this recipe considered low cholesterol?
Yes, this recipe is categorized as a low cholesterol meal.
How should the tomatoes be prepared?
You should use 1 cup of fresh tomatoes that have been chopped.
How are the red onions prepared for this salad?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of red onion that is thinly sliced.
How much salt should I add?
The recipe suggests 1/4 teaspoon of salt, or you can adjust to taste.
Should the pasta be rinsed after cooking?
Yes, you should drain and rinse the linguine under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Can I serve this salad immediately?
Yes, it can be served immediately for a fresh taste.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can cover and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this salad good for picnics?
Absolutely, its vibrant and refreshing nature makes it ideal for picnics and potlucks.
What is the total ingredient count for this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients used in this recipe.
How do I mix the dressing?
In a small bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.
How do I combine the salad ingredients?
In a large bowl, toss the cooked linguine with spinach, tomatoes, onions, and pine nuts before adding the dressing.
Can I add extra protein to this salad?
While not in the original recipe, you could add chickpeas or grilled chicken if you are not following a vegetarian diet.
What makes the salad 'vibrant'?
The combination of bright green spinach, red tomatoes, and purple onions creates a colorful and visually appealing dish.
Is the spinach cooked in this recipe?
No, the spinach is used fresh and shredded, providing a crisp texture.
What if I don't like red onions?
You can reduce the amount, omit them, or substitute with milder shallots.
Can I use dried pesto mix?
The recipe specifies refrigerated prepared basil pesto for the best creamy consistency and flavor.
Is this a light meal option?
Yes, it is tagged as a light meal, perfect for summer.
How long does it take to prep the vegetables?
Preparation involves simple chopping, shredding, and slicing which can be done while the pasta boils.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
Based on the ingredients listed, there is no added sugar in this recipe.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the linguine with a gluten-free alternative of your choice.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any remaining salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.