Feta Cranberry Penne Salad has been a go-to in my kitchen ever since I first whipped it up for a last-minute potluck. I remember the vibrant colors – the ruby red cranberries, the creamy white feta, and the fresh green spinach – making it an instant hit. Everyone kept asking for the recipe for Feta Cranberry Penne Salad, and I felt so proud! This delightful dish, with its perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory, often reminds me of sunny picnics and easy summer evenings. It’s truly a refreshing penne pasta salad with feta and cranberries that always impresses. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
I genuinely believe this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad will become a staple in your home, just as it has in mine. It’s not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Incredible Flavor: The sweet cranberries, tangy feta, and zesty orange vinaigrette create a symphony of tastes.
- Quick to Prepare: You can have this delicious cranberry feta pasta salad ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with fresh spinach and wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious option for any meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with common, affordable ingredients, it won’t break the bank.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone, from kids to adults, adores this vibrant and flavorful cranberry feta pasta salad.
- Versatile: It’s perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a star at your next potluck gathering.
Ingredients for Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
To create this amazing Feta Cranberry Penne Salad, you’ll need a few simple yet impactful ingredients. I find that using quality components truly makes all the difference in a delicious penne pasta salad with feta and cranberries.
- 8 oz of penne pasta – the perfect shape for holding that delicious vinaigrette.
- ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese – for that irresistible salty, tangy kick.
- ½ cup of dried cranberries – these add a wonderful chewiness and burst of sweetness.
- ¼ cup of chopped, toasted walnuts – I love the crunch and nutty flavor they bring to the salad.
- 2 cups of baby spinach – fresh greens are essential for a healthy and vibrant salad.
- ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion – a little goes a long way for a subtle savory bite.
- ¼ cup of fresh orange juice – the base for our bright and zesty dressing.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil – helps to emulsify the vinaigrette and adds richness.
- 1 tablespoon of honey – balances the tang with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard – for a little zing and to help bind the dressing.
- ½ teaspoon of salt – enhances all the flavors in this delightful penne pasta salad with feta and cranberries.
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper – a classic seasoning for a well-rounded taste.
How to Make Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
Making this delightful Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. I promise you’ll love how quickly this easy Feta Cranberry Penne Salad recipe comes together, leaving you more time to enjoy its vibrant flavors.
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from sticking together, ensuring a perfect base for our salad.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta with ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese, ½ cup of dried cranberries, and ¼ cup of chopped, toasted walnuts. Gently toss these ingredients together. You’ll notice the beautiful contrast in colors and textures already, setting the stage for a truly inviting dish.
- Step 3: Next, carefully fold in 2 cups of fresh baby spinach and ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion. The spinach adds a wonderful fresh, leafy element, while the red onion provides a subtle, savory crunch. Mix until the spinach is just incorporated and evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- Step 4: Now, let’s create our zesty orange vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of fresh orange juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is well emulsified and looks smooth and slightly creamy. The aroma of citrus and mustard will be quite invigorating! This vinaigrette is key to our easy Feta Cranberry Penne Salad recipe.
- Step 5: Drizzle the freshly made orange vinaigrette over the penne pasta mixture. Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are thoroughly coated with the dressing. Each piece of pasta, every cranberry, and every bit of feta should be glistening with that delicious vinaigrette. Serve your beautiful Feta Cranberry Penne Salad immediately and savor the harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
Pro Tips for the Best Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
I’ve made this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that I’m excited to share with you. These simple tips will elevate your salad from good to absolutely amazing, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor and perfect texture.
- Always use fresh orange juice for the vinaigrette; it makes a huge difference in brightness.
- Don’t overcook your penne pasta; al dente is key for a great pasta salad texture.
- Toast your walnuts lightly for a deeper, nuttier flavor that complements the cranberries.
- If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What’s the secret to perfect Feta Cranberry Penne Salad?
The real secret to the best Feta Cranberry Penne Salad lies in balancing the textures and flavors. I always make sure to rinse my pasta with cold water to keep it firm, and the homemade orange vinaigrette, with its fresh ingredients, truly brings all the elements together into a cohesive and delightful dish.
Can I make Feta Cranberry Penne Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook the pasta and chop all your ingredients a day or two in advance. Just store the dressing separately and toss everything together right before you plan to serve it for optimal freshness and flavor.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Feta Cranberry Penne Salad?
One common mistake is over-dressing the salad too early, which can make it soggy. Another is using pre-shredded cheese that lacks the fresh crumble and tang of block feta. I always recommend tasting the vinaigrette before adding it to ensure it’s perfectly balanced for your delicious Feta Cranberry Penne Salad.
Best Ways to Serve Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
I find that this versatile Feta Cranberry Penne Salad shines in so many settings! It’s truly a dish that adapts beautifully to different meal occasions. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy this delightful creation.
First, it makes a fantastic light lunch on its own, especially on a warm day. The refreshing flavors of the orange vinaigrette and fresh spinach are incredibly satisfying without being heavy. I often pack it for work, and it holds up wonderfully.
Second, it’s an absolute star as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish. The tangy cranberries and salty feta perfectly complement savory proteins. This makes it an ideal option for a backyard barbecue or a vibrant summer pasta salad with feta and cranberries, pairing beautifully with corn on the cob or a simple green salad.
Finally, I love serving it as part of a larger buffet spread. It adds color, texture, and a unique flavor profile that always gets compliments. It’s a great contribution to any potluck or family gathering.
Nutrition Facts for Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of this delicious Feta Cranberry Penne Salad. Here’s an estimate per serving, based on the ingredients specified in my recipe (this recipe makes 4 servings):
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Please remember that these nutritional values for Feta Cranberry Penne Salad are estimates and may vary based on specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
I always get questions about how to best store this fantastic Feta Cranberry Penne Salad to keep it fresh and delicious. Proper storage is crucial, especially if you’re making a big batch or enjoying leftovers. I’ve found a few methods that work perfectly.
First, ensure the salad is completely cooled before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it an ideal make-ahead dish for lunches throughout the week! For the best texture, I recommend keeping the orange vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve, if possible.
Regarding reheating, this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is primarily enjoyed cold, which is how I prefer it. However, if you really want to warm it slightly, you can microwave a single serving on a low setting for about 30 seconds to a minute, just until it’s barely warm. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can make the pasta mushy and wilt the spinach. Freezing is generally not recommended, as it significantly alters the texture of the pasta and fresh ingredients. This is a key part of knowing how to prepare cranberry feta pasta salad for later enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
What is Feta Cranberry Penne Salad?
Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is a vibrant and flavorful pasta salad featuring penne pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, fresh spinach, and a zesty orange vinaigrette. It’s known for its delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a popular choice for light meals, side dishes, and potlucks. I love how simple yet sophisticated this salad tastes.
Can I substitute other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne pasta is my go-to for this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad because its ridges hold the dressing so well, you can easily use other short pasta shapes. Farfalle (bow-tie), rotini, or orecchiette would all work wonderfully. Just be sure to cook your chosen pasta al dente for the best texture in your Feta Cranberry Penne Salad.
What if I don’t have fresh orange juice for the vinaigrette?
Fresh orange juice truly elevates the vinaigrette, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use good quality bottled orange juice. I’ve also had success substituting a mix of lemon juice and a touch more honey for a similar sweet and tangy profile. The goal is a bright, zesty dressing that complements the other ingredients in your Feta Cranberry Penne Salad.
Can I add protein to this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad?
Yes, and I highly recommend it if you want to make this a heartier main course! Cooked and diced chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make excellent additions. Simply toss them in with the other ingredients before adding the dressing. This turns your already delicious Feta Cranberry Penne Salad into a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations of Feta Cranberry Penne Salad You Can Try
I love how adaptable this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad recipe is! It’s incredibly easy to tweak it to suit your dietary needs or just to experiment with new flavors. Here are some of my favorite variations that I’ve enjoyed making.
For a truly healthy Feta Cranberry Penne Salad, consider adding extra vegetables like diced cucumber, bell peppers, or even roasted broccoli. This boosts the nutritional content and adds more crunch. If you’re looking for a protein-packed version, I often toss in grilled chicken breast, canned chickpeas, or even some flaked salmon. It transforms the salad into a hearty main dish.
Another delicious twist is to swap out the walnuts for pecans or even candied nuts for an extra sweet crunch. You could also experiment with different cheeses; goat cheese offers a creamier, tangier profile, while a mild provolone could provide a different texture. Don’t be afraid to make this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad your own!
Print
Feta Cranberry Penne Salad: 30 Min Amazing Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Feta Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette combines ease with flavor. It’s simple to make, with fresh ingredients that boast a tangy, sweet, and savory profile. This Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is healthful, budget-friendly, and comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weekdays or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz of penne pasta
- ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup of dried cranberries
- ¼ cup of chopped, toasted walnuts
- 2 cups of baby spinach
- ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup of fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of penne pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. The penne pasta should be tender yet firm to the bite. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, preventing stickiness.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked penne pasta. Next, combine ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese, ½ cup dried cranberries, and ¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts. Tossing these ingredients gently will help distribute the flavors evenly in your cranberry feta pasta salad.
- Add Freshness: Gently fold in 2 cups of baby spinach and ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion. Ensure the spinach is coated well, providing vibrant color and a soft, leafy texture against the crisp penne pasta.
- Create the Orange Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup fresh orange juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper until the dressing emulsifies. The mixture should be smooth, with the aroma of citrus and the slight heat from the mustard coming through for this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the Feta Cranberry Penne Salad, tossing until all ingredients are well-coated. The dressing should cling to the penne pasta ridges, enhancing each bite. Serve immediately, savoring the fusion of sweet cranberries, salty feta, and zesty dressing in this delicious cranberry feta pasta salad.
Notes
- Use fresh orange juice for the vinaigrette to enhance flavor and aroma.
- When toasting walnuts, keep an eye on them—they burn quickly! Toast until golden for maximum flavor in your Feta Cranberry Penne Salad.
- Crumbling feta cheese with your hands gives a more rustic texture.
- Mist baby spinach slightly with water before mixing to keep it fresh and crisp.
- Chill the Feta Cranberry Penne Salad before serving for a refreshing, bold taste.
- If your orange vinaigrette separates, re-whisk it; it should recombine easily.
- Store the Feta Cranberry Penne Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve to maintain penne pasta texture.
- Reheat in a microwave at a low setting to gently warm as desired.
- For best flavor freshness, consume within 2 days.
- Prevent freezer burn by avoiding freezing; it affects penne pasta texture.
- Always check for discoloration or off smells before consuming stored salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Mixing and Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg