If you are searching for a fresh, vibrant dish that combines tangy, savory, and creamy flavors perfectly, this Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe is exactly what your table needs. It is a delightful combination of tender farfalle pasta, hearty artichoke hearts, crisp baby spinach, and bursting grape tomatoes, all enveloped in a luscious, flavorful dressing. Whether you’re planning a family picnic, a potluck, or just a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing salad that feels both light and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make and absolutely bursting with Mediterranean-inspired goodness!

Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic in this Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe starts with a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing texture, flavor, and a stunning pop of color that turns this pasta salad into a showstopper.

12 ounces farfalle pasta: The bowtie shape holds onto the dressing perfectly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
¾ cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, rich base that ties the ingredients together.
½ cup milk: Lightens and smooths the dressing, giving it a luscious consistency.
1 packet Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix: Infuses the salad with concentrated, savory herb and cheese notes, elevating every mouthful.
2 teaspoons Onion Onion™ Seasoning: Adds a subtle, sweet onion crunch that complements the other flavors.
1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt: Perfectly balances and enhances the entire dish.
1 (14 ounce) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained: Brings a tender texture with a mild, slightly tangy flavor.
1 pint grape tomatoes: Juicy bursts of sweetness that brighten up the salad.
½ cup pitted kalamata olives, halved: Introduces a briny, smoky depth that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves: Adds freshness, vibrant green color, and a gentle earthiness.
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty finish that ties all the flavors together.

How to Make Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions. The bowtie pasta cooks quickly to a tender but still firm texture that holds up well in salad form. Once it’s done, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step ensures your pasta salad will be refreshingly cool and not mushy.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise and milk for a creamy but not overpowering base. Stir in the Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix, Onion Onion™ Seasoning, and seasoned salt. Whisk everything until the mixture is smooth and flavorful. This dressing is the heart of the salad and brings all the ingredients together with a perfect blend of herbs and tang.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Now for the fun part—adding the stars of the salad! Toss in the cooled pasta along with the quartered artichoke hearts, juicy grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, fresh spinach leaves, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Use a gentle tossing motion to evenly coat everything with the dressing. Taste and finish with salt and pepper to your liking. The balance of creamy dressing and fresh produce makes this salad irresistible.

Step 4: Serve or Refrigerate

You can enjoy this salad immediately, for a fresh and crisp treat, or cover it and let it chill in the refrigerator. Making it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious dish. Both ways guarantee a stellar addition to your meal lineup.

How to Serve Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe

Garnishes

To enhance your serving experience, sprinkle some extra shredded Parmesan or add a few whole kalamata olives on top just before serving. Fresh basil or a light drizzle of good olive oil can also elevate the flavor and presentation, making the salad look as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or crusty garlic bread. Its creamy, herb-infused nature balances grilled or smoky mains perfectly, turning your meal into a well-rounded feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pasta salad in mini lettuce cups or hollowed-out tomatoes for a fun appetizer twist. Alternatively, layer the salad inside clear glass bowls or mason jars to showcase the vibrant colors for an appealing picnic or party display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead side or lunch option during a busy week.

Freezing

Because this salad contains fresh spinach and mayonnaise, freezing is not recommended as it will affect the texture and creaminess when thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh or chilled from the fridge.

Reheating

This pasta salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. Just take it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to let it lose its chill slightly for the best flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While farfalle is ideal because of its shape, you can substitute with rotini, penne, or even shell pasta. Just choose something that holds dressing well and has a nice texture to complement the other ingredients.

Is there a way to make this salad vegan?

Yes! Swap out the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast. Also, double-check the dip mix ingredients or create your own herb seasoning blend to keep it fully vegan.

Can I prepare this salad the day before a party?

Definitely. Making the salad a day ahead lets the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it chilled and toss gently before serving to refresh the ingredients.

What can I use instead of the Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix if I can’t find it?

If you can’t find that specific dip mix, you can try a combination of dried spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. This will approximate the flavor, though the packaged mix gives a nice convenience and depth.

How can I make the salad more filling for a main course?

Add cooked, diced chicken breast, chickpeas, or cannellini beans for extra protein. This will transform the salad into a satisfying main meal without losing its fresh appeal.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe—the way fresh vegetables, tangy artichokes, and creamy dressing come together in perfect harmony to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you’re fueling a casual gathering or just want a reliable, tasty salad recipe for any occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every vibrant, savory bite!

Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe

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3.9 from 63 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender farfalle pasta with a creamy, tangy dressing infused with artichoke and spinach dip mix. Bursting with fresh grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, baby spinach, and Parmesan cheese, it’s a perfect make-ahead salad that’s ideal for potlucks, picnics, or a light lunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 ounces farfalle (bowtie) pasta

Dressing

¾ cup mayonnaise
½ cup milk
1 packet Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix (about 1 ounce)
2 teaspoons Onion Onion™ Seasoning
1 teaspoon seasoned salt

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

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Prepare farfalle pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta down, preventing it from sticking.
Make Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix, Onion Onion™ Seasoning, and seasoned salt until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are fully combined.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the dressing bowl, then incorporate the drained artichoke hearts, halved grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, baby spinach leaves, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is coated evenly with the dressing.
Serve or Refrigerate: The pasta salad can be served immediately for best fresh flavor or covered and refrigerated for up to two days to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving from the fridge, give it a quick stir and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Make sure to rinse the pasta well to cool it down and avoid clumping.
Feel free to substitute the Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix with similar creamy dip mixes or homemade blend of minced artichokes and spinach with seasonings.
Can be made a day ahead, but add the spinach last if you prefer a fresher texture.
Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein to make it a more substantial meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American