Spring Pasta Strawberry Arugula Feta (Printable Version)

Enjoy a vibrant pasta salad with strawberries, feta, arugula, and basil—perfect for spring gatherings or lunch.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pasta

01 - 9 ounces short pasta, such as fusilli or farfalle
02 - Salt, for boiling

→ Vegetables & Greens

03 - 3.5 ounces fresh arugula
04 - 9 ounces strawberries, hulled and quartered
05 - 1 small cucumber, diced
06 - 2 spring onions, thinly sliced

→ Cheese

07 - 3.5 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

→ Dressing

08 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
09 - 1.5 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
10 - 1 teaspoon honey
11 - Juice of half a small lemon
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
14 - 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Prepare pasta until al dente according to manufacturer instructions, then drain and rinse under cool running water.
02 - Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large salad bowl until thoroughly combined.
03 - Add cooled pasta to salad bowl and gently toss with prepared dressing.
04 - Fold in arugula, strawberries, cucumber, and spring onions. Toss gently to integrate.
05 - Scatter crumbled feta and chopped basil across mixture. Toss lightly for even distribution.
06 - Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts if desired just before serving.
07 - Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to one hour prior to service.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy feta creates a flavor surprise in every bite.
  • Pasta salad never feels heavy here — the arugula and cucumber keep things bright and crisp.
02 -
  • I once made the mistake of dressing the salad with warm pasta — the greens wilted and the feta melted away.
  • Letting the salad chill for a bit allows the flavors to mingle without turning soggy.
03 -
  • Letting ingredients come to room temperature before mixing gives the salad a perfect texture and balanced flavor.
  • Chopping basil just before serving releases its fragrance, making the salad irresistible.
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