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Strawberry Avocado Pasta Salad Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 142 reviews
  • Author: Mariam
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A fresh and vibrant Strawberry Avocado Pasta Salad combining tender pasta, sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, peppery arugula, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a luscious poppy seed and Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish served warm or chilled.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Greens

  • 16 ounces uncooked penne rigate pasta
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
  • 2 cups baby arugula
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Salad Mix-Ins

  • 1 lb. strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 avocados, cubed
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

Dressing

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup poppy seed dressing
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon salt. Cook the penne rigate pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain and Combine: Drain the pasta and return it to the pot or place it in a large bowl while still warm.
  3. Wilt Arugula: Stir in the 2 cups of baby arugula into the warm pasta, allowing it to wilt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add Fresh Ingredients: Gently fold in the sliced strawberries, cubed avocados, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh basil.
  5. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, poppy seed dressing, and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
  6. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the warm pasta mixture and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
  7. Serve: Serve the salad warm or chilled, adding extra lemon juice if desired to brighten the flavors before serving.
  8. Enjoy: Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful salad as a refreshing meal or side.

Notes

  • The pasta can be served warm or cold depending on preference.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to enhance brightness.
  • Use ripe avocados to ensure creaminess and best flavor.
  • Feel free to substitute poppy seed dressing with a homemade vinaigrette for a lighter option.
  • This salad is best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated for up to one day.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: strawberry avocado pasta salad, pasta salad, summer salad, arugula salad, feta cheese salad, poppy seed dressing salad

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Find it online: https://aromaofgrandma.com/strawberry-avocado-pasta-salad-recipe/