Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish perfect for any occasion! The delightful blend of creamy feta, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy toasted walnuts, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette makes every bite irresistible. Whether you serve it as a light meal or as a side dish at your next gathering, this pasta salad is quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Pasta and Greens
• Cheese and Nuts
• Fruits and Vegetables
• For the Vinaigrette
• How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Step 1: Boil the Rigatoni
• Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette
• Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
• Step 4: Dress the Salad
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• As a Standalone Meal
• With Grilled Chicken
• On a Bed of Greens
• In a Wrap
• At a Picnic
• As an Appetizer
• How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Best Side Dishes for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Reheating Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• How do I make this salad gluten-free?
• What variations can I try?
• Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be made in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts creates a delicious contrast that will excite your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with grilled chicken for a heartier option. It’s suitable for lunch, dinner, or potlucks.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach, nuts, and healthy fats from olive oil, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors meld together in the fridge for an even tastier experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Having the right equipment on hand can enhance your efficiency in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling rigatoni pasta efficiently.
• Colander: Allows you to drain cooked pasta quickly without losing any pieces.
• Mixing bowl: Provides space to combine all ingredients evenly for maximum flavor.
• Whisk: Helps you blend the lemon vinaigrette smoothly for better consistency.

Ingredients

Pasta and Greens

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach

Cheese and Nuts

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped

Fruits and Vegetables

• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

For the Vinaigrette

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Step 1: Boil the Rigatoni

Boil rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
– Drain the pasta using a colander.
– Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together:
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
– Cooked rigatoni
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/3 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
– 2 cups baby spinach
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad mixture.
– Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve

You can serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor. Enjoy your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette!

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this vibrant dish.

As a Standalone Meal

• This salad shines as a light lunch or dinner option. Enjoy it on its own for a refreshing meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for added protein. The flavors of the chicken complement the tangy feta and sweet cranberries perfectly.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the pasta salad over mixed greens for extra crunch and nutrition. This adds a fresh element to your dish.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling for wraps. Spread it inside a tortilla with some additional spinach, roll it up, and you have a quick meal on the go!

At a Picnic

• Pack the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad in a portable container for picnics or potlucks. It’s easy to transport and always a hit with guests.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions of the salad in appetizer cups at parties. This makes for an elegant starter that showcases vibrant colors and flavors.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

To ensure your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Cook pasta al dente – This keeps the rigatoni firm, preventing it from becoming mushy when mixed with other ingredients.
• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh baby spinach and high-quality feta cheese enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste your lemon vinaigrette before adding it to the salad; adjust salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
• Chill before serving – Letting the salad chill for about 15 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add nuts last – To maintain their crunch, mix in toasted walnuts just before serving.
• Experiment with add-ins – Feel free to customize by adding cherry tomatoes or cucumber for extra freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

When serving this delightful pasta salad, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus drizzled with olive oil make for a flavorful side.
2. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread adds a buttery crunch that pairs well with your tangy salad.
3. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella balls, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers offer a refreshing bite alongside your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad packed with herbs and lemon complements the flavors of the pasta without overpowering them.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – These provide natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with the tartness of cranberries in your salad.
6. Hummus Platter – A colorful platter of hummus served with pita chips and veggies provides variety and encourages sharing among guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, it’s easy to overlook a few key points that can affect the dish’s overall taste and texture.

• Not cooking pasta al dente: Overcooking the rigatoni can lead to a mushy salad. Always follow package instructions for al dente results.
• Skipping the cold rinse: Rinsing the pasta under cold water after cooking stops the cooking process, preventing sogginess. Don’t skip this step!
• Using low-quality feta cheese: The flavor of your salad relies heavily on feta. Opt for high-quality, creamy feta cheese for the best taste.
• Forgetting to season properly: A pinch of salt and pepper makes a difference. Taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors in your salad.
• Making it too early: While this salad can be made ahead, letting it sit too long before serving can dull flavors. Serve it fresh or chill briefly for best results.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in pasta and feta.
• If necessary, you can freeze without dressing for up to 1 month.

Reheating Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion of salad in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat while stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute rigatoni with penne or fusilli for a different texture and shape.

How do I make this salad gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, use gluten-free pasta available at most grocery stores.

What variations can I try?

You can add grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for added protein and flavor. Experiment with different nuts like almonds or pecans too!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep as it stays fresh when stored properly and is great for lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it easily by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the dressing’s tanginess. Try it out and enjoy every vibrant bite!