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As the temperature rises and summer approaches, the craving for light, refreshing meals becomes more pronounced. One dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of warm-weather dining is Chilled Greens & Hearts Pasta Delight. This vibrant pasta salad is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, expertly combined to create a dish that is both visually stunning and nutritionally rich. The earthy flavors of tender spinach and the unique taste of artichoke hearts harmonize beautifully with the zesty brightness of cherry tomatoes and aromatic herbs, making this recipe an ideal choice for a light lunch or a delightful side dish at gatherings.

Cold Spinach & Artichoke Pasta Salad

As summer heats up, delight in the refreshing Chilled Greens & Hearts Pasta Salad, a colorful mix of seasonal ingredients. Featuring tender spinach, artichoke hearts, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for light lunches or gatherings, it's versatile enough to customize for your taste. Learn how to prepare this nourishing salad while exploring its health benefits and impressive flavor combinations. Enjoy the perfect summer dish!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the fresh spinach, quarter the artichoke hearts, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

        Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.

          Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

            Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

              Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Enjoy your refreshing Cold Spinach & Artichoke Pasta Salad!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings