Print

Balsamic Strawberry Pasta Salad

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Balsamic Strawberry Pasta Salad combines fresh strawberries, spinach, and chicken with a sweet and tangy strawberry balsamic vinaigrette. Tossed with feta, walnuts, and pasta, it’s a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for lunch, picnics, or barbecues.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced

2 cups spinach leaves, roughly chopped

8 ounces small pasta (penne, fusilli, or bowtie), cooked

1 cup diced chicken

1/4 cup toasted walnuts

4 ounces crumbled feta cheese

Salt & pepper to taste

Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

For the Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette:

1/2 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1/2 cup olive oil

1 tablespoon honey (or more to taste)

Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette: Blend strawberries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Adjust sweetness or seasoning as needed.

  • Toast the Walnuts: In a skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Remove and set aside.

  • Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to the package. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it quickly.

  • Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine pasta, strawberries, spinach, chicken, toasted walnuts, and feta. Season with salt and pepper.

  • Dress the Salad: Drizzle with strawberry balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.

  • Serve: Optionally drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with basil. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add chickpeas or roasted veggies.

Substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.

Find it online: https://familydinnercooking.com/balsamic-strawberry-pasta-salad/