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Creamy Strawberry Feta Pasta Salad

A delightful dish combining the sweetness of strawberries with savoury feta, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Dressing
  • 2/3 cup Greek yogurt This creamy base adds a rich texture and tangy flavor.
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar Provides a zesty kick that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Adds a fruity aroma and silky mouthfeel.
  • 1/4 cup honey A natural sweetener that enhances the fruit's flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Elevates the taste of other ingredients.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground dry mustard A hint of spice adds depth; alternatives include 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard.
  • 1 Tablespoon poppy seeds Introduces a crunchy texture and visual appeal.
Salad Components
  • 1 pound dry pasta Use elbow, bow tie, rotini, etc.
  • 5 cups chopped romaine lettuce Crisp and refreshing.
  • 1 - 1.5 pounds strawberries, sliced Juicy and sweet, they are the star of the dish.
  • 2 avocados, diced Creamy and buttery.
  • 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese Salty and tangy.
  • 3/4 cup slivered or sliced almonds Nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot and cooking the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, ground mustard, and poppy seeds until well combined and creamy.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped romaine lettuce, sliced strawberries, diced avocados, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced almonds.
  4. Mix and Serve: Gently toss everything together with the prepared dressing until evenly coated. For extra flavor, feel free to sprinkle a bit more feta and almonds on top.
Storage
  1. Chill: Cover the salad and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. This salad tastes even better after a day or two, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

Make Ahead: Preparing this salad a day in advance enhances the flavors as they have more time to combine. Adjust Sweetness: Modify the amount of honey based on your taste preference and the ripeness of the strawberries. Add Protein: If desired, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make the salad more filling. Distribution of Ingredients: When serving, layer the salad instead of mixing to keep it visually appealing.