Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad
- 12 ounces (340g) rotini or bowtie pasta
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- ½ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Creamy Dressing
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- Extra strawberries
- Additional feta cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Cracked black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Allow the pasta to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Greek yogurt
- Mayonnaise
- Honey
- Lemon juice
- Apple cider vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked pasta
- Strawberries
- Feta cheese
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Spinach
- Toasted pecans
- Fresh basil
Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Add the Dressing
Pour the creamy dressing over the salad.
Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Be careful not to crush the strawberries.
Step 5: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
This allows the flavors to blend and enhances the overall taste.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, top with:
- Additional strawberries
- Crumbled feta
- Fresh basil
- Cracked black pepper
Serve chilled.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and savory flavor combination
- Perfect for summer gatherings
- Easy to prepare ahead of time
- Packed with fresh ingredients
- Great for picnics and potlucks
- Beautiful presentation
Delicious Variations
Chicken Strawberry Pasta Salad
Add grilled chicken breast for a complete meal.
Avocado Strawberry Pasta Salad
Mix in diced avocado just before serving.
Poppy Seed Version
Add 1 tablespoon poppy seeds to the dressing.
Balsamic Strawberry Salad
Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Spinach Lover’s Salad
Double the spinach for extra greens.
Expert Tips
Cook Pasta Al Dente
Firm pasta holds up better after mixing with the dressing.
Add Strawberries Last
This helps keep them intact and prevents excess juice from thinning the dressing.
Chill Before Serving
The salad tastes best after chilling for at least 30 minutes.
Use Fresh Feta
Block feta crumbled by hand provides the best flavor and texture.
Toast the Nuts
Toasting pecans or walnuts enhances their flavor and crunch.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Stir gently before serving, as the dressing may settle.
Not Recommended for Freezing
The fresh fruit and creamy dressing do not freeze well.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta salad with:
- Grilled chicken
- Burgers
- Barbecue ribs
- Sandwiches
- Grilled shrimp
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh lemonade
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
This Creamy Strawberry Feta Pasta Salad is fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. The sweet strawberries, tangy feta, crunchy nuts, and creamy dressing create a deliciously unique dish that’s perfect for warm-weather meals and special gatherings.
