Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad

This Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, a family gathering, or simply enjoying a healthy lunch at home, this salad is sure to impress. Its rich combination of fresh ingredients not only provides essential nutrients but also satisfies your taste buds with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and heart-healthy avocados, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a vibrant side salad alongside grilled meats or fish.
• Flavorful Dressing: The zesty lemon and dijon mustard dressing enhances the freshness of the ingredients without overpowering them.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week. Just store it in the fridge!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad requires some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right kitchen equipment will make cooking simpler and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large pot
• Colander
• Medium bowl
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Saves time by quickly chopping herbs and greens, ensuring an even texture in your salad.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding, leading to perfectly cooked noodles.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water from pasta efficiently, preventing sogginess in your salad.

Ingredients

This Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad is not only delicious, it’s packed with vegetables and protein for a healthy meal or side dish.

For the Salad Base

• 2 1/2 cups penne pasta (white, whole wheat, or other bite-sized pasta)
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup sweet onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 avocados (peeled, seeded, and diced)
• 15-ounce can chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)

For the Dressing

• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain pasta using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Greens

Place cilantro and spinach in a food processor. Pulse a few times until they are finely diced. Transfer to a medium bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the garlic, onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and chickpeas into the bowl with greens. Add the cooked pasta and stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, sugar, dijon mustard, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour over the salad mixture.

Step 5: Toss & Chill

Toss everything together until well coated with dressing. Refrigerate for about 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

How to Serve Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad

Serving Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad can enhance its vibrant flavors and make it a delightful meal. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it.

As a Main Dish

• This salad makes a filling and nutritious main course, perfect for lunch or dinner.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pairing this salad with grilled chicken adds protein, making it even more satisfying.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serving the pasta salad on fresh greens like arugula or kale elevates the dish and adds extra nutrients.

In a Wrap

• Use spinach avocado pasta salad as a filling in a wrap for a portable meal option.

Topped with Feta Cheese

• Sprinkle some feta cheese on top for added creaminess and tang that complements the avocado.

How to Perfect Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad

To achieve the best version of Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe avocados: Ripe avocados provide a creamy texture that enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the dressing before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for about 15-20 minutes helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• Add nuts for crunch: Incorporating toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts can add an enjoyable crunch and boost nutrition.
• Experiment with herbs: Besides cilantro, try adding fresh basil or parsley for varied flavors in your spinach avocado pasta salad.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad

Complementing your Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad with side dishes can create a more rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread pairs well, providing a comforting side that balances the freshness of the salad.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and flavor while maintaining healthy eating habits.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: This light quinoa dish offers additional protein and fiber while being easy to prepare.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add sweetness to your meal.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and contrast, enhancing the textures in your dining experience.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers with grains or beans create a hearty side that matches well with the pasta salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad can be straightforward, but some common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushy textures. Always follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Skipping the dressing: The dressing enhances flavors. Don’t forget to mix it well with all ingredients before serving.
• Not seasoning properly: Insufficient salt and pepper can dull the dish’s taste. Season gradually and taste as you go.
• Using unripe avocados: Firm avocados can be hard to mash and will not blend well. Choose ripe avocados for creaminess.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted spinach or stale herbs can compromise flavor. Select fresh produce for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in avocado and pasta.
• If freezing, keep it in a sealed container for up to 1 month, but expect changes in texture upon thawing.

Reheating Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different pasta types for Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad?

Yes! You can substitute with gluten-free pasta or any shape you prefer, such as fusilli or bowtie.

How can I customize my Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers, or switch beans for protein variations.

Is this Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well for a few days, making it perfect for meal prep.

What should I serve with Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side dish at picnics and barbecues.

Final Thoughts

The Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile and healthy. It’s perfect as a light meal or side dish. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!

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Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Spinach Avocado Pasta Salad, a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. This delightful salad combines tender pasta with fresh spinach, creamy avocados, and protein-packed chickpeas, all tossed in a zesty lemon-dijon dressing. Whether served as a light lunch or a stunning side at your next gathering, this salad is bound to impress with its colorful presentation and satisfying taste. Quick to prepare in just 25 minutes, it’s not only delicious but also an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy healthy lunches throughout the week.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 1/2 cups penne pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 avocados
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup sweet onion
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, pulse spinach and cilantro until finely chopped; transfer to a bowl.
3. Stir in garlic, onion, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chickpeas. Gently fold in cooked pasta.
4. Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, dijon mustard, cumin, salt, and pepper; pour over salad.
5. Toss to coat evenly and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg