Layered Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe
This delicious and vibrant Layered Spinach Pasta Salad is perfect for any gathering or meal that needs a burst of color and flavor. With layers of fresh veggies, tender tortellini, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing, it’s sure to be a hit. Easy to prepare and quick to assemble, this salad takes less than 30 minutes to make, yet delivers a sophisticated taste that’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red cabbage | 1 cup |
| Fresh spinach | 2 cups |
| Grape tomatoes | 6 |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Cooked bacon (crumbled) | 1 strip |
| Tortellini | 8 oz |
Dressing Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Your choice of dressing | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360.3 |
| Fat | 27.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 36.8 mg |
| Sodium | 602.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 19.3 g |
| Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Sugar | 2.7 g |
| Protein | 8.4 g |
Instructions
-
Cook the Tortellini:
Begin by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Typically, this will involve bringing a pot of water to a boil, adding the tortellini, and cooking for 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep them tender and firm. -
Prepare the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, slice the grape and cherry tomatoes. Prepare the spinach and red cabbage by slicing the cabbage into thin strips and washing the spinach thoroughly. -
Layer the Salad:
In a 13×9-inch glass baking dish or similar-sized serving dish, start by layering the ingredients. First, place the red cabbage at the bottom, followed by the fresh spinach. Then add a layer of the cooked tortellini, and top with the sliced tomatoes. -
Dress the Salad:
Drizzle your favorite dressing evenly over the layered salad. You can use a creamy ranch dressing, a balsamic vinaigrette, or any dressing you prefer for an extra burst of flavor. -
Add the Bacon:
Crumble cooked bacon over the top of the salad for a crunchy, savory finishing touch. -
Chill and Serve:
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, simply take it out of the fridge and enjoy!
Serving Size
This recipe yields 8 servings. Perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or meal prepping for the week!
Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This salad was the perfect addition to our summer picnic! It’s fresh, filling, and the bacon adds such a great crunch. Will definitely make it again.” – Emily
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Love how easy and quick this is to prepare. The dressing is the perfect finishing touch. My family loved it!” – Sarah
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a side dish for a casual meal or a refreshing salad to bring to a potluck, this Layered Spinach Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh veggies, pasta, and bacon, topped with a tangy dressing, makes every bite flavorful and satisfying. Ready in just 24 minutes, it’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s sure to be enjoyed by all.
