If you adore vibrant, fresh, and creamy dishes that bring a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to your table, then this Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Packed with tender farfalle pasta, tangy artichoke hearts, crisp baby spinach, and a luscious, flavorful dressing, this salad strikes the perfect balance between hearty and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a stunning side dish for your next cookout or a zesty, satisfying meal on its own, this pasta salad delivers every time with texture, color, and incredible taste.

Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe come together in a way that’s straightforward but essential to making each bite pop with flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy dressing to the fresh vegetables, creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eyes.

12 ounces farfalle (bowtie) pasta: The charming shape holds onto the dressing beautifully and adds a fun texture.
¾ cup mayonnaise: Provides creaminess that binds all the ingredients together while adding richness.
½ cup milk: Lightens the mayo for a smooth, luscious dressing without overpowering.
1 packet Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix: Infuses the salad with that signature tangy, herby warmth.
2 teaspoons Onion Onion™ Seasoning: Adds subtle onion notes enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt: Delivers balanced seasoning for a savory backbone.
1 (14 ounce) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained: Brings tender, slightly tangy bites that pair perfectly with the creamy dressing.
1 pint grape tomatoes: Burst of sweetness and bright color that refresh every forkful.
½ cup pitted kalamata olives, halved: Adds a bold, briny contrast that pulls the flavor profile together.
2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves: Offers vibrant green freshness and a mild, earthy taste.
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles salty, nutty richness to finish the salad with a flourish.

How to Make Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Begin by preparing the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s perfectly al dente, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step ensures that the pasta salad won’t become mushy and allows the dressing to cling to each piece beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix, Onion Onion™ Seasoning, and seasoned salt. This dressing is where the magic begins, blending creamy textures with herbaceous and savory notes that bring all the salad ingredients into harmony.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Fresh Ingredients

Time to bring it all together! Add the cooled pasta to your bowl along with the quartered artichoke hearts, juicy grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, fresh baby spinach leaves, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Toss everything gently to coat each ingredient evenly with the luscious dressing. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed to suit your preferences.

Step 4: Chill or Serve Immediately

This Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe shines both freshly made and chilled. You can serve it immediately if you’re eager to indulge, or cover it and refrigerate for later. Allowing it to rest for even 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully, creating an even more irresistible dish.

How to Serve Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your pasta salad presentation with a sprinkle of extra shaved Parmesan or a handful of freshly chopped parsley or basil. A few cracked black pepper flakes on top add a subtle kick and make the dish look effortlessly elegant.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, crispy shrimp, or even a warm baguette to scoop up any leftover dressing. Think of it as the perfect sidekick to any summer BBQ or a delightful lunch companion on its own.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress at your next gathering? Serve this salad in individual mason jars layered with extra olives and tomatoes on top, or fill colorful lettuce cups with generous spoonfuls for a fun finger-food approach. The Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe is versatile enough to suit casual picnics or elegant dinner parties alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply transfer any leftover Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after some time, making the next-day serving even more delightful.

Freezing

Because of the mayonnaise-based dressing and fresh vegetables, freezing this pasta salad is not recommended. The texture of the spinach, tomatoes, and dressing will change upon thawing, resulting in a less enjoyable experience.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not needed. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While farfalle is perfect for this salad, you can substitute with rotini, penne, or fusilli—any pasta shape that holds dressing well will work beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This version includes mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese, which are not vegan. However, you can use vegan mayonnaise and omit or replace the cheese with a vegan alternative to make it plant-based.

How far in advance can I prepare this salad?

You can prepare this salad up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and give it a gentle toss before serving to refresh the flavors and textures.

Can I substitute fresh spinach with baby kale or arugula?

Yes! Baby kale or arugula would be delicious alternatives, adding their own unique flavors. Just keep in mind that arugula has a peppery bite, so adjust seasonings accordingly.

What if I don’t have Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix?

While that mix gives this salad its signature taste, you can use a blend of dried spinach, artichoke powder, garlic powder, and onion powder as a homemade substitute to capture similar flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Artichoke & Spinach Pasta Salad Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels both indulgent and fresh, with a perfect blend of textures and taste that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a potluck, a family dinner, or a picnic in the park, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to make it and fall in love with it just as much as I have!