Summer is right around the corner, and this Spinach Bacon Pasta Salad is the freshest side for all the picnics, barbecues, and pool parties your heart desires.
1/4cupthinly sliced mild onionlike a red or sweet onion, or to taste
4cupsbaby spinach
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse in cold water to stop the cooking process.
Slice the bacon into small pieces, and then place in a large skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, until very crisp.
While the pasta and bacon are cooking, make the dressing for the pasta salad.
In a small bowl, add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, mayo, garlic, salt, and ground black pepper.
Whisk to combine well.
In a large bowl, add the pasta, and toss with the dressing. Add the cooked bacon, tomatoes, onion, and baby spinach, and toss to combine.
Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, and serve right away.
Notes
The salad can be chilled before serving if you'd like.
If you'd like to make this ahead, cook the pasta, make the dressing, and prep the other ingredients, but keep these separate. Toss everything together right before serving.
Don't skip rinsing the pasta! This is a cold pasta salad, so you must rinse the noodles to stop them from cooking further and keep the pasta loose, not sticky and clumpy.
Use any pasta in your pantry and cook it according to the package directions.