10 Tips For Cooking From Scratch

In this guide, we’ll break down 10 tips for cooking from scratch, explained in detail and written for real-life busy schedules, limited budgets, and everyday families.

Cooking from scratch is more than a trend; it’s a powerful life skill that saves money, improves health, and builds confidence in the kitchen. Whether you’re trying to cut grocery costs, avoid ultra-processed foods, or become more self-reliant, learning how to cook from scratch is one of the most valuable skills you can master.

Kitchen Items You Need

• Slow Cooker
• Soup Pot
• Rice Cooker
• Danish Whisk
• Can Openers, Hand Crank, and Electric
• Mixing Bowls
• BreadMaker
• Dicorain Food Sealer
• Frying Pan

I have the instructions listed after tip #10 below for making a Roux. If you can make a Roux, your meal possibilities will expand a lot. You can make so many things with a Roux. Here are a few ways I use my Rouxs:

• Mac and Cheese
• Cream Chipped Beef
• Cream of Potato Leek Soup
• Cauliflower Casserole
• Sausage Gravy

Why Cooking From Scratch Matters More Than Ever

With rising food prices, ingredient shortages, and growing concerns about additives and preservatives, more people are returning to homemade meals. Cooking from scratch allows you to:

• Control ingredients and portion sizes
• Reduce food waste
• Stretch your grocery budget
• Improve nutrition
• Build kitchen confidence
• Create meals your family actually enjoys

Let’s dive into the essential skills every home cook should know.

1. How to Read Recipes Properly Before You Start

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is jumping into a recipe without reading it fully.

Why this matters:
Many recipes require prep steps, resting time, or ingredients that need to be added at specific stages. Missing these details can ruin the final dish.

What to do instead:

• Read the recipe from start to finish
• Check prep time vs cook time
• Look for phrases like “divided,” “room temperature,” or “set aside.”
• Prepare all ingredients before turning on the stove

This single habit prevents stress, mistakes, and wasted food.

2. How to Build Simple Meals From Basic Ingredients

Cooking from scratch doesn’t mean fancy meals — it means starting with whole ingredients.

Core scratch cooking ingredients include:

• Flour, sugar, salt
• Eggs
• Rice, pasta, potatoes
• Dried or canned beans
• Fresh or frozen vegetables
• Basic oils and fats

Once you understand how these staples work together, you can create hundreds of meals without a recipe.

Example:
Chicken + vegetables + seasoning + starch = endless dinner options.

3. How to Prep Ingredients Like a Pro

Proper food prep saves time and makes cooking enjoyable instead of overwhelming.

Key prep skills to learn:

• Chopping onions evenly
• Mincing garlic
• Washing and storing produce correctly
• Pre-measuring spices

Batch prep tip:
Chop vegetables for several meals at once and store them in airtight containers. This makes cooking from scratch faster than ordering takeout.

4. How to Season Food Correctly

Seasoning is what separates bland food from delicious food.

Scratch cooking rule:
Season in layers, not all at once.

Must-know seasoning tips:

• Salt enhances flavor (not just “saltiness”)
• Acid (vinegar or lemon) brightens dishes
• Herbs add freshness
• Spices add warmth and depth

Taste as you cook and adjust slowly. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away.

5. How to Cook Without Relying on Boxed Mixes

Boxed mixes are convenient, but they often contain preservatives, excess sodium, and fillers.

Scratch alternatives you should know:

• Homemade pancake batter
• Simple bread dough
• DIY seasoning blends
• Basic sauces like gravy, white sauce, and tomato sauce

Once you learn these basics, boxed mixes become unnecessary and expensive.

6. How to Make Simple Sauces From Scratch

Sauces are the backbone of scratch cooking.

Essential sauces to master:

• Pan sauce
• Basic tomato sauce
• Cream or white sauce
• Simple vinaigrette

Learning sauces allows you to transform plain ingredients into restaurant-quality meals using what you already have on hand.

7. How to Cook Proteins Properly

Overcooked protein is one of the biggest frustrations for new cooks.

Scratch cooking protein tips:

• Let meat rest before and after cooking
• Don’t overcrowd the pan
• Use medium heat more often than high heat
• Learn visual doneness cues, not just time

Properly cooked proteins mean tender chicken, juicy burgers, and flavorful meals every time.

8. How to Use Leftovers Creatively

Cooking from scratch saves money, but only if food doesn’t go to waste.

Leftover transformation ideas:

• Roast chicken → soup, casseroles, sandwiches
• Cooked vegetables → omelets or stir-fries
• Rice → fried rice or rice bowls

Thinking in terms of “ingredient reuse” rather than “leftovers” changes everything.

9. How to Stock a Scratch-Cooking Pantry

A well-stocked pantry makes cooking from scratch easy, even on busy nights.

Essential pantry items:

• Flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda
• Rice, pasta, oats
• Canned tomatoes and beans
• Oils and vinegars
• Spices and dried herbs

When your pantry is ready, meals come together quickly without extra grocery trips.

10. How to Build Confidence Cooking Without Recipes

The ultimate scratch cooking skill is cooking without strict instructions.

How to get there:

• Start with simple meals
• Repeat recipes until comfortable
• Pay attention to smell, texture, and color
• Trust your instincts

Confidence grows with practice, not perfection.

Common Mistakes When Learning to Cook From Scratch

Avoid these beginner pitfalls:

• Trying overly complicated recipes too soon
• Skipping prep steps
• Not tasting while cooking
• Expecting perfection immediately

Scratch cooking is a journey; every meal teaches you something.

How to Make a Roux (The Complete Beginner’s Guide)

Learning how to make a roux is one of the most important skills in cooking from scratch. A roux is the foundation for countless classic dishes, from creamy gravies to rich soups and hearty sauces. Once you master it, you unlock a whole new level of confidence in the kitchen.

This guide will walk you through what a roux is, why it matters, the different types of roux, and exactly how to make one step by step, with tips to avoid common mistakes.

What Is a Roux?

A roux is a simple mixture of fat and flour cooked together and used to thicken sauces, soups, and gravies. Despite its simplicity, the technique behind it creates smooth, flavorful results rather than lumps or a raw-flour taste.

Basic Roux Ratio:

• Equal parts fat and flour (by weight or volume)

Common fats include:

• Butter
• Oil
• Bacon fat
• Lard

Why a Roux Is Important in Cooking

A roux does more than just thicken food.

A roux helps:

• Create smooth gravies and sauces
• Prevent lumps in soups
• Add depth and richness
• Improve texture and mouthfeel

Without a roux, many classic comfort foods simply wouldn’t exist.

Types of Roux (And When to Use Them)

The color of a roux determines both flavor and thickening power. The longer it cooks, the darker it becomes.

White Roux

• Cooked briefly (1–2 minutes)
• Mild flavor
• Strong thickening power

Best used for:

• White sauces
• Cream soups
• Sausage gravy

Blond Roux

• Light golden color
• Slight nutty flavor
• Medium thickening power

Best used for:

• Chicken gravy
• Turkey gravy
• Cream-based sauces

Brown Roux

• Medium brown color
• Rich, toasted flavor
• Less thickening power

Best used for:

• Beef gravies
• Stews
• Gumbo bases

Dark Roux

• Deep brown, almost chocolate-colored
• Very rich, nutty flavor
• Minimal thickening power

Best used for:

• Cajun and Creole dishes
• Gumbo
• Deeply flavored sauces

How to Make a Roux Step by Step

Making a roux requires attention but not complicated tools.

Step 1: Heat the Fat

Place a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat and add your chosen fat. Allow it to melt or heat fully, but don’t let it smoke.

Step 2: Add the Flour

Sprinkle in an equal amount of flour while stirring continuously.

Important:
Stir immediately to prevent clumping.

Step 3: Stir Constantly

Use a whisk or wooden spoon to stir the mixture continuously. This prevents burning and ensures even cooking.

Step 4: Cook to Desired Color

• White roux: Cook just until bubbly and smooth
• Blond roux: Cook until lightly golden
• Brown roux: Cook until medium brown
• Dark roux: Cook slowly until deep brown

Never walk away, roux can burn quickly.

Step 5: Add Liquid Slowly

Once your roux reaches the desired color, slowly add warm liquid (broth or milk), whisking constantly to keep it smooth.

Best Liquids to Add to a Roux

The liquid you add determines the final dish.

Common options include:

• Milk or cream
• Chicken broth
• Beef broth
• Vegetable stock

Tip: Warm liquids combine more smoothly than cold ones.

Common Roux Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks can struggle with roux if they rush.

Burning the Roux

If it smells bitter or looks speckled, it’s burned. There’s no fixing it, start over.

Adding Liquid Too Fast

Pouring liquid too quickly can cause lumps. Add gradually while whisking.

Using High Heat

High heat increases the risk of burning. Medium heat is ideal.

Not Cooking the Flour Long Enough

Raw flour taste means the roux wasn’t cooked long enough before being added to the liquid.

Can You Make Roux Ahead of Time?

Yes! Roux can be made in advance and stored.

Storage tips:

• Refrigerate for up to 1 week
• Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months

A pre-made roux is a time-saver on busy cooking days.

How Much Roux Do You Need?

A general guideline:

• 1 tablespoon fat + 1 tablespoon flour thickens about 1 cup of liquid

Adjust based on how thick you want the final dish.

Why Every Home Cook Should Learn to Make a Roux

A roux is the backbone of scratch cooking. It teaches:

• Patience
• Heat control
• Flavor development

Once mastered, you’ll rely less on packets, mixes, and store-bought sauces.

Print

How To Make A Roux

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 8 people

Author Linda Loosli

Ingredients

• 1 cup Butter
• 1 cup Flour
• 1/2 Gallon of Milk

Different Meal Options with Roux

• Add cooked sausage (makes sausage gravy)
• Add grated cheese and cooked macaroni to taste for Mac & Cheese
• Add Chipped beef
• Cooked broccoli for soup
• Cooked cauliflower for soup

Instructions

• Grab a large saucepan and melt the butter, stirring constantly.
• Add the flour and blend until smooth. This is called a Roux.
• Add the milk slowly and stir constantly until the mixture thickens.
• Add more milk if it's too thick.
• Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir constantly.
• I add a little sugar, it's just me, it tastes better.

Final Thoughts: Cooking From Scratch Is a Life Skill Worth Learning

Learning how to make a roux may seem simple, but it’s a powerful skill that transforms everyday meals into comforting, homemade classics. With just flour, fat, and a little attention, you can create gravies, sauces, and soups that taste rich, smooth, and satisfying every time.

Cooking from scratch is not about being fancy or perfect; it’s about being authentic. It’s about control, confidence, and care for your budget, your health, and your family. Start small. Master the basics. Build confidence one meal at a time. The more you cook from scratch, the easier and more rewarding it becomes. May God bless this world, Linda

The post 10 Tips For Cooking From Scratch appeared first on Food Storage Moms.

from Food Storage Moms

25 Surprising Uses for Cinnamon

Estimated reading time: 11 minutes

We sprinkle it in on hot beverages, cereal, and toast. We bake it into cakes, rolls, and chocolate recipes, and it adds savory goodness to lamb and chicken dishes. Its sweet aroma evokes memories of childhood and Christmas celebrations.

You probably have a jar of ground cinnamon and/or cinnamon sticks on your pantry shelf. But it may be time to add to your supply. Cinnamon is a valuable spice that offers many health and lifestyle benefits. Historical records trace its use as a preservative, as a medicine, and as an anointing oil to ancient times. In fact, one of the earliest books on Chinese botanical medicine, which dates to around 2,700 B.C., mentions cinnamon.

First, let's look at some basic Cinnamon 101. The two basic types of the ancient spice are Cassia (sometimes called “Chinese cinnamon”), which originated in southern China, and Ceylon (also called “true cinnamon”), which is native to southern India and Sri Lanka.

The two varieties are made from the inner bark of different types of Cinnamomum trees. Strips of this inner bark are cut and dried until they begin to curl into rolls that are known as sticks or quills. These sticks then can be used as-is, made into an extract, or ground into a powder. The spice's distinctive smell and flavor comes from the oil in the bark, which is rich in the compound cinnamaldehyde.

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Cassia cinnamon is darker in color and has a stronger flavor than the Ceylon kind. While both have comparable health benefits, Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, a compound that can be harmful when consumed in very large doses. A teaspoon a day of either Ceylon or Cassia cinnamon is considered safe. All varieties of cinnamon belong to the diverse Lauraceae plant family, which also includes avocado and bay leaves.

Nearly all the cinnamon found in supermarkets throughout the world is the Cassia variety. You can find the more expensive Ceylon kind in some health food stores and online. When stored in airtight containers in a cool, dark location, cinnamon sticks will remain fresh and flavorful for about one year.

Similarly stored, ground cinnamon will stay potent for three to four years. It's important to realize that cinnamon, like most spices, does not “go bad.” It merely loses flavor over extended storage time. Your nose is your best guide for freshness and flavor.

Now, here are 25 reasons to stockpile cinnamon.

As An Antioxidant

Cinnamon contains some of the same compounds (including polyphenols, phenolic acid, and flavonoids) that are found in dark berries, red wine, and dark chocolate.

These compounds help reduce free radical damage in the body and can slow the effects of aging. Cinnamon is even higher in terms of its antioxidant values than garlic, rosemary, oregano, and thyme.

Balance Insulin

Cinnamon consumption can help lower blood sugar levels in the body while improving sensitivity to insulin, the key hormone needed for blood sugar balance.

Insulin resistance can lead to Type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Cinnamon can decrease the amount of glucose that enters the bloodstream after a meal and can lower fasting blood sugar levels by as much as 29 percent.

Boost Metabolism

Cinnamaldehyde, the oil that gives cinnamon its flavor and aroma, may help regulate the body's metabolism. A 2017 study published in the journal Metabolism found that exposure to cinnamon oil triggered fat cells from both mice and humans to start burning calories through the process called thermogenesis. Therefore, cinnamon may aid in weight management.

Boost Your Mood

The scent of cinnamon has been shown to reduce irritability and improve mood. Studies suggest that the smell of cinnamon can enhance alertness, reduce fatigue, and even boost performance on certain mental tasks. Diffuse cinnamon oil or keep a small sachet of cinnamon sticks nearby when you’re working, studying, or just need a mental lift.

Clean Teeth

If you read the label on many natural kinds of toothpaste and mouthwashes, you may notice cinnamon as an ingredient. The spice has been used for many centuries as a natural way to treat toothaches, and it helps freshen the breath. Anti-microbial effects of cinnamon may even help prevent tooth decay and mouth infections.

Cover Scuffs and Scratches

If you have any small scuffs or scratches on wood furniture, you can use cinnamon to cover them up. Just rub ground cinnamon onto them and soon they won't be noticeable anymore.

Deter Garden Pests

Cinnamon can help protect your garden from fungus and pests. Sprinkle ground cinnamon on the soil around your plants to deter mushrooms and mold growth. It also acts as a mild natural pesticide — ants, gnats, and other small pests dislike the strong smell. It’s safe for plants and pets, making it a good choice for natural gardening.

Deter Pantry Pests

Cinnamon can help protect stored foods from insects that ruin long-term pantry supplies. Ants, weevils, and pantry moths are repelled by its strong aroma.

Placing cinnamon sticks or small sachets of ground cinnamon in grain bins, flour containers, or food storage shelves can help deter infestations. While it’s not a substitute for airtight storage, it adds an extra layer of protection using a natural, shelf-stable spice.

Fight Cold and Flu

Cinnamon has long been used in traditional remedies for cold and flu symptoms. When combined with honey, it can soothe a sore throat and calm coughing. The antimicrobial properties in cinnamon may help fight the underlying infection, while its warming nature helps improve circulation and ease chills. Try adding a dash to warm tea or a spoonful of honey.

Fight Fungus

Cinnamon consumption can reduce the amount of harmful Candida Albicans in the body's digestive tract. Overgrowth of Candida can lead to gut inflammation, vaginal infections, digestive problems, and autoimmune symptoms.

Cinnamon can also be used to treat fungal conditions such as athlete's foot. To treat it, boil 10 sticks of cinnamon in a quart of water. Let it cool off until it's just warm, then soak your feet in the cinnamon water for 20 to 30 minutes.

Fight Tumors

Cinnamaldehyde, a compound found in cinnamon, is looking promising in animal studies on tumor growth, cell mutation and DNA damage. Studies involving mice with colon cancer have demonstrated that cinnamon consumption help to detoxify enzymes in the colon, slowing tumor growth.

Freshen The Air

The warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon makes it a natural choice for freshening indoor air without synthetic chemicals. You can simmer cinnamon sticks in water with orange peels and cloves for a DIY potpourri that leaves your home smelling cozy and clean.

You could also add a few drops of cinnamon essential oil to a diffuser or spray bottle mixed with water to deodorize any room.

Improve Brain Health

Although research is ongoing in this area, cinnamon consumption may boost cognitive function and offer some protection from neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. In animal studies, cinnamon has prohibited the buildup of tau proteins in the brain.

These proteins are associated with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Also, just the smell of cinnamon can help increase your ability to perform tasks involving attention, memory and hand-eye coordination.

Improve Heart and Blood Health

Cinnamon consumption has been linked with reduced LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, increased HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and lower blood pressure. Cinnamon also helps in blood clotting and in proper blood circulation.

These factors may lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Recent studies have shown that cinnamon consumption may even help reduce the effects of a high-fat diet.

Improve Skin Health

The anti-microbial and antibiotic properties in cinnamon help protect the skin from rashes and help the healing process from acne, rosacea, and allergic reactions.

Livestock and Coop Pest Control

Cinnamon can be used around small livestock areas to discourage insects. Sprinkling cinnamon powder in cracks of chicken coops, nesting boxes, or feed storage areas may help deter mites, ants, and flies.

While it should not be applied directly to animals in large quantities, its natural insect-repelling properties make it a useful supplemental tool for homesteaders seeking low-chemical pest control options.

Preserve Food

Cinnamon has natural anti-fungal properties that help it serve as a natural preservative. It was in high demand in Medieval Europe for this purpose and was one of the first and most prized commodities traded between the Near East and Europe.

Promote Hair Growth

There is some evidence that cinnamon can stimulate hair growth. Just mix together equal parts cinnamon and honey and apply it to any areas where your hair is thinning.

Reduce Food Spoilage Odors

Cinnamon’s antimicrobial properties and strong scent make it useful for managing odors in root cellars, pantries, and food storage rooms.

Placing bowls of cinnamon sticks or sachets of ground cinnamon in enclosed storage spaces can help neutralize musty smells caused by dampness or aging produce. This was a common practice before modern air fresheners and refrigeration.

Reduce Foot Odor

Because of its antibacterial and antifungal properties, cinnamon can help neutralize foot odor. Boil a few cinnamon sticks in water, let it cool, and soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes. This simple foot bath can help reduce sweat-related bacteria and leave your feet smelling fresher.

Reduce Inflammation

The antioxidants in cinnamon can help lower inflammation in the human body, including reducing swelling, repairing tissue damage, relieving muscle soreness, and lowering certain allergic reactions.

In traditional Chinese medicine, cinnamon is a mainstay in cold or flu remedies. It often is mixed in a healing tea along with some fresh ginger.

Repel Insects

While we enjoy the smell of cinnamon, some insects can't stand it. Try sprinkling cinnamon wherever you see ants enter your home or wiping down door and window openings with a solution of cinnamon essential oil and water to repel ants and spiders.

Cinnamon sticks are also an important deterrent to moths. Or make a sachet of cinnamon sticks, cloves, and rosemary and hang it in your closet or place it in your dresser drawer for moth protection.

Soothe Nausea

Cinnamon is great for an upset stomach (in small amounts). Boil a cinnamon stick in a cup of water for 10 minutes, strain it, then slowly sip the resulting tea.

Support Circulation

Cinnamon has a warming effect on the body and has traditionally been used to improve circulation. In colder climates or during grid-down heating shortages, cinnamon tea can help promote blood flow and reduce the sensation of cold hands and feet.

This warming quality made cinnamon a valued spice in traditional winter remedies, especially when combined with ginger or honey. For homesteaders working outdoors in cold weather, it can be a simple morale- and comfort-boosting addition.

Treat Infections

The cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon also may help fight the growth of certain dangerous bacteria, including listeria and salmonella. Cinnamon oil has been used to treat respiratory tract infections that were caused by fungi.

More Uses

We won't include it on our list, but historians have discovered that in addition to using cinnamon as a medicine and as a flavoring, the Ancient Egyptians used cinnamon as an embalming agent!

One of the oldest spices known to humans, cinnamon is mentioned in the Bible in at least four different verses.

• “Take also for yourself the finest of spices: of flowing myrrh five hundred shekels, and of fragrant cinnamon half as much, two hundred and fifty, and of fragrant cane two hundred and fifty” — Exodus 30:23
• “Nard and saffron, calamus and cinnamon, With all the trees of frankincense, Myrrh, and aloes, along with all the finest spices. — Song of Solomon 4:14
• “I have sprinkled my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.” — Proverbs 7:17
• “And cinnamon and spice and incense and perfume and frankincense and wine and olive oil and fine flour and wheat and cattle and sheep, and cargoes of horses and chariots and slaves and human lives.” — Revelation 18:13

Today, Ceylon cinnamon is produced mostly in Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Brazil, and the Caribbean, while Cassia is produced mainly in China, Vietnam, and Indonesia.  If the label does not specify the product's country of origin, it is probably the Cassia variety.

Cinnamons that specify on the label that they are made in Vietnam usually command a much higher price than simple ground cinnamon found on your grocery store shelf. Vietnamese cinnamon can sell at more than $4 per ounce, compared with as little as 90 cents per ounce for the kinds with generic labels.

Are the fancier cinnamons worth the extra money? In 2016, Cook's Illustrated magazine tested eight different varieties by adding them to a chilled rice pudding, baking them into cinnamon rolls and sprinkling them on pita chips.

The magazine's research team’s findings were that the pricier Vietnamese cinnamon had a noticeably spicier taste when sprinkled on the cold rice pudding, but that taste differences were not noticeable on the chips or in the rolls.

The reason is that cinnamaldehyde is extremely unstable in the presence of heat. Therefore, if you want to add cinnamon to a cold food or beverage, you might prefer the higher-priced varieties. Otherwise, the less expensive kinds may work well for your long-term needs.

You May Also Like:

• 100+ Uses for Baking Soda
• Grandma's Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
• 10 Easy Camping Snack Ideas
• 27 Essential Spices That Should Be In Every Kitchen
• How to Clean Your Teeth Without Toothpaste

The post 25 Surprising Uses for Cinnamon appeared first on Homestead Survival Site.

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Spinach Pasta Salad With Chicken

Spinach pasta salad with chicken is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. It’s light yet satisfying, fresh yet hearty, and packed with textures and flavors that make it perfect for potlucks, family dinners, meal prep, or warm-weather gatherings. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, leafy spinach, and a sweet and savory dressing, this pasta salad is both comforting and refreshing.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning for the week, spinach pasta salad checks all the boxes: it’s versatile, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable.

Why Spinach Pasta Salad With Chicken Is Always a Favorite

Spinach pasta salad stands out for its balance of fresh greens, protein, crunch, and bold flavor in every bite. Unlike heavy mayonnaise-based salads, this version uses a light oil-and-vinegar dressing that coats the pasta beautifully without weighing it down.

It also happens to be a fantastic way to use leftover chicken and pantry staples, making it ideal for busy households that still want wholesome, homemade meals.

Kitchen Items You May Need

• Salad Bowl
• Salad Dressing Mixer
• Salad Tongs
• Fry Pan
• Blender or Small Magic Unit

Ingredient Breakdown: Why Each One Matters

Chicken

Chicken adds heartiness and protein, transforming this pasta salad from a side dish into a complete meal. Its mild flavor absorbs the dressing well and pairs perfectly with both sweet and savory ingredients.

Pasta

Pasta provides structure and substance. It carries the dressing and ties all the ingredients together, making the salad filling and satisfying without being heavy.

Fresh Spinach

Spinach brings freshness, color, and nutrition. Its tender leaves wilt slightly when tossed with the warm pasta and dressing, creating a perfect balance between soft and crisp textures.

Green Onions

Green onions add a mild onion flavor without overpowering the salad. They bring brightness and a subtle bite that complements the sweetness of the dressing.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers contribute crunch, color, and natural sweetness. They add freshness and make the salad both visually appealing and flavorful. I prefer the sweet ones: red, yellow, and orange bell peppers.

Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds introduce a light nutty flavor and a delicate crunch that enhances the overall texture of the salad.

Sliced Sugared Almonds

Sugared almonds are what give this salad its signature contrast. Their sweetness and crunch elevate the dish, pairing beautifully with the tangy dressing and savory chicken.

The Dressing: Sweet, Tangy, and Perfectly Balanced

The dressing is what truly brings this spinach pasta salad to life. It’s a simple combination of pantry ingredients that creates bold flavor without being complicated.

• Sugar provides sweetness that balances the acidity.
• Red wine vinegar adds tang and brightness.
• Canola oil creates a smooth, light base.
• Soy sauce introduces savory depth and umami.
• Salt and pepper finish everything off with balance and seasoning.

Together, these ingredients form a dressing that soaks into the pasta, coats the spinach, and enhances every bite without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

Spinach Pasta Salad With Chicken Recipe

Print

Spinach Pasta Salad With Chicken

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 0 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 12 people

Author Linda Loosli

Ingredients

• 4-6 Cooked chicken breasts, shredded
• 2- 16-ounce Boxes of pasta, cooked (I use Mini Farfalle). Today, I used elbow macaroni.
• 1-2 bunches Green onions, sliced
• 3 Bell peppers, red, green, and yellow, chopped
• 1/4 cup Sesame seeds
• 1-16 ounce Bag of baby spinach
• 1/2 cup Sliced almonds (Cook quickly with 2-3 tablespoons sugar, in a fry pan until almost glossy)

Salad Dressing Dressing

• 3 tablespoons Sugar
• 1/3 cup Red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup Canola oil
• 1/3 cup Soy sauce
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

Salad Instructions

• Combine the ingredients in a large bowl, then pour the dressing over the salad. Serve immediately.

Salad Dressing

• Combine ingredients in a blender and mix thoroughly.

When to Serve Spinach Pasta Salad With Chicken

This salad is incredibly versatile and works for almost any occasion:

• Summer barbecues and picnics
• Potlucks and church gatherings
• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prep lunches
• Holiday side dishes

It can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it especially convenient for gatherings and make-ahead meals.

Make-Ahead Friendly and Meal-Prep Approved

Spinach pasta salad actually improves with time. As it rests, the flavors meld together, and the pasta absorbs the dressing. This makes it an excellent choice for preparing ahead of time or packing lunches throughout the week.

If you’re hosting, it’s one less dish to worry about on the day of your event.

A Salad That Never Disappoints

Spinach pasta salad with chicken is a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish that feels both fresh and comforting. With simple ingredients, bold flavor, and endless versatility, it’s easy to see why this salad has remained a favorite for generations. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers every single time.

How to Store Spinach Pasta Salad

Proper storage helps keep spinach pasta salad fresh, flavorful, and safe to eat while preserving its texture and vibrant ingredients.

Refrigeration

Store spinach pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days when properly chilled. Because spinach is delicate, keeping it exposed to air to a minimum helps prevent wilting.

Keep It Cold

Always refrigerate the salad within 2 hours of serving. If the salad has been sitting out at a gathering or picnic, transfer leftovers to the refrigerator as soon as possible to maintain food safety and quality.

Stir Before Serving

As the salad rests, the pasta absorbs the dressing. Before serving as leftovers, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute moisture and flavors. If needed, a small splash of dressing can refresh it.

Store Almonds Separately (Optional)

For the best texture, consider storing the sugared almonds separately and adding them just before serving. This keeps them crisp and prevents them from softening in the dressing. I make them ahead and freeze them in mason jars until I need them.

Not Freezer Friendly

Spinach pasta salad does not freeze well. Freezing causes the spinach to become mushy, the pasta to lose its texture, and the dressing to separate once thawed.

How Long Does Spinach Pasta Salad Last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, spinach pasta salad will last 3 to 4 days.

What Affects Shelf Life

Several factors can impact how long the salad stays fresh:

• Freshness of the chicken and spinach when prepared
• Must be refrigerated quickly after serving
• Whether it was kept cold during events or gatherings

Signs It’s Time to Toss It

Discard the salad if you notice:

• A sour or off smell
• Slimy or excessively wilted spinach
• Excess liquid pooling with a cloudy appearance
• Any visible mold

Best Quality Tip

For the best flavor and texture, enjoy spinach pasta salad within the first 2 days, when the spinach is still vibrant, and the almonds remain crisp.

Food Safety Tips for Potlucks

Potlucks are fun and convenient, but food safety is especially important when sharing dishes with others. Spinach pasta salad contains chicken and fresh greens, so proper handling is key.

Keep Cold Foods Cold

Spinach pasta salad should be kept at 40°F or below. Use insulated coolers, ice packs, or chilled serving bowls to keep the salad cold while it’s on the table.

Follow the Two-Hour Rule

Don’t leave the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the temperature is above 90°F, reduce that time to 1 hour. After that, the salad should be discarded.

Serve in Smaller Portions

Instead of putting the entire salad out at once, serve it in smaller bowls and refill as needed. This helps keep the remaining salad cold and safe.

Use Clean Utensils

Always provide a dedicated serving spoon and avoid cross-contamination by not mixing utensils between dishes.

Keep the Lid Handy

Cover the salad when it’s not actively being served. This protects it from airborne contaminants and helps maintain a safer temperature.

When in Doubt, Throw It Out

If you’re unsure how long the salad has been sitting out or whether it stayed cold enough, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.

Can You Make Spinach Pasta Salad Ahead?

Yes, spinach pasta salad is an excellent make-ahead dish, making it perfect for busy schedules, parties, and potlucks.

Best Timeframe

For best results, prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to blend while keeping the spinach fresh and vibrant.

How to Prep Ahead

• Cook and cool the pasta completely before assembling
• Add the chicken, vegetables, and dressing, then toss gently
• Refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to serve

Save Crunchy Ingredients for Later

For the best texture, add sesame seeds and sugared almonds just before serving. This keeps them crisp and prevents them from softening in the dressing.

Refresh Before Serving

Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. If it looks slightly dry, a small splash of dressing can bring everything back to life.

Ideal for Entertaining

Making this salad ahead of time reduces day-of prep time and stress, allowing you to focus on hosting while still serving a fresh, flavorful dish.

Growing Spinach: Everything You Need To Know

Dehydrate Spinach and Make Spinach Powder

Final Word

Spinach pasta salad effortlessly brings together fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and comforting texture. With tender chicken, vibrant spinach, crisp vegetables, and a perfectly balanced sweet-and-savory dressing, it’s a reliable favorite for everything from casual family meals to large potluck gatherings.

Its make-ahead convenience, easy storage, and crowd-pleasing appeal make it a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a complete meal, spinach pasta salad proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. This is the kind of dish that never goes out of season and never comes home with leftovers. May God bless this world, Linda

The post Spinach Pasta Salad With Chicken appeared first on Food Storage Moms.

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