Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Salad Recipe
This refreshing Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Salad combines tender cooked pasta with vibrant fresh spinach leaves and tangy artichoke hearts, all tossed in a creamy, flavorful dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a delightful side dish for picnics and gatherings, this salad is easy to prepare and bursting with fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (such as rotini or penne)
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped spinach, and artichoke hearts. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature for a refreshing dish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and mayonnaise.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor in the dressing.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.
Keywords: Spinach pasta salad, artichoke salad, vegetarian pasta salad, cold pasta salad, Mediterranean pasta salad
