Introduction
Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a sunny Mediterranean escape in a single bite. Creamy, refreshing, and full of color, it’s the perfect make-ahead pasta salad for picnics, parties, or quick weekday lunches. Imagine tender farfalle pasta tossed with marinated artichoke hearts, juicy grape tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a velvety dressing that balances tang and richness beautifully.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This Spinach Artichoke Pasta Salad combines the beloved flavors of the classic dip with the heartiness of a cold pasta dish — a true crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it is impressive. Whether you’re searching for an easy spinach and artichoke pasta salad, a healthy artichoke spinach pasta bowl, or a refreshing chilled spinach artichoke pasta, this recipe delivers it all.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
Fresh and Creamy: Combines crisp vegetables with a rich dressing.
Mediterranean Flavors: Artichokes, olives, and Parmesan create a tangy, savory balance.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with spinach for a vitamin boost.
Perfect Cold Dish: Ideal for make-ahead lunches or summer gatherings.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples for maximum flavor at minimal cost.
Customizable: Add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a fuller meal.
Crowd Favorite: Universally loved and ideal for potlucks or BBQs.
Ingredients
Pasta
12 ounces farfalle (bowtie) pasta – holds dressing perfectly
Dressing
¾ cup mayonnaise – gives a creamy, rich texture
½ cup milk – lightens the dressing
1 packet Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix (about 1 ounce) – infuses signature flavor
2 teaspoons Onion Onion™ Seasoning – adds depth
1 teaspoon seasoned salt – enhances all flavors
Salad Mix-Ins
1 (14-ounce) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
½ cup pitted kalamata olives, halved
2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
💡 Substitution Tips:
Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Replace Parmesan with feta for a tangy twist.
Try penne or rotini pasta instead of farfalle for texture variety.
How to Make the Best Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add farfalle pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping.
Step 2: Make Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix, Onion Onion™ Seasoning, and seasoned salt until smooth and fully combined. The mixture should be creamy but pourable — add a splash more milk if needed.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold in the drained artichoke hearts, halved grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, baby spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until every piece is coated in that luscious dressing.
Step 4: Chill or Serve
Serve immediately for a fresh flavor burst, or cover and refrigerate for at least one hour for the flavors to meld. If refrigerated overnight, give it a good stir before serving and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Pro Tips
What goes in an artichoke and spinach pasta salad?
A perfect balance of pasta, creamy dressing, artichokes, spinach, tomatoes, olives, and cheese creates that signature Mediterranean flair.
Can you make spinach artichoke pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld beautifully. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Best dressing for spinach and artichoke pasta salad?
A creamy mayo-based dressing with milk and seasoning works best — it clings to pasta and absorbs beautifully without becoming too heavy.
How to make spinach and artichoke pasta salad healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, and reduce the cheese slightly. You can also add grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein.
Best Ways to Serve
This Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or seafood. It’s also fantastic alongside other cold dishes like Lebanese Tomato Salad or Mexican Green Spaghetti — both of which you can find on Recipes Nana.
It works well as:
A BBQ side dish
A meal prep lunch
A vegetarian potluck option
Or a light Mediterranean dinner when paired with warm pita bread
Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal | 16% |
| Protein | 8 g | 16% |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g | 9% |
| Fat | 19 g | 29% |
| Fiber | 3 g | 12% |
| Sodium | 540 mg | 22% |
| Calcium | 110 mg | 9% |
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and refresh with a splash of milk or olive oil to restore creaminess.
Avoid freezing, as dairy-based dressings can separate once thawed.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing — this prevents a soggy texture.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute vegan mayo and dairy-free cheese for a fully vegan version.
What pasta shapes work best?
Farfalle, rotini, and penne all hold the creamy dressing well and maintain structure when chilled.
Is it gluten-free?
Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Recipe Variations
Mediterranean Spinach Artichoke Pasta: Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and feta.
Healthy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Recipe: Use whole-grain pasta and light yogurt dressing.
Artichoke Spinach Pasta Side Dish: Reduce dressing for a lighter, less creamy texture.
Warm Version: Serve right after tossing for a cozy, dip-like experience.
Conclusion
A single bowl of Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe captures everything you crave in a comforting yet refreshing dish — creamy, tangy, and bursting with flavor. Whether served cold on a summer table or alongside roasted chicken in cooler months, this salad promises to satisfy every bite.