As I tossed together my Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, a burst of color and a hint of nostalgia filled my kitchen. This lively, Mediterranean-inspired dish is not only a feast for your eyes but also a delightful quick fix for those hectic weeknights. With just 25 minutes of prep, you’ll discover a refreshing blend of creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and zesty orange that elevates any meal. An irresistible perk? This salad can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables and cheeses, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light main course or a vibrant side, this salad is sure to impress—and it might just become your new go-to! Are you ready to dive into this flavorful experience?
Why Try Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
Quick & Easy: This salad is a breeze to prepare—just 25 minutes from start to finish!
Vibrant Flavors: The zesty orange vinaigrette perfectly complements the creamy feta and sweet cranberries, creating a harmonious taste experience.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily customizable with your choice of vegetables or cheeses, making this dish suitable for any occasion.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for a hassle-free lunch or dinner option; just add the dressing before serving.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for gatherings or picnics, this colorful salad is sure to delight guests. For another delicious salad idea, check out my Harvest Pasta Salad!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this vibrant dish.
For the Pasta
- Penne Pasta – A hearty base that provides structure; consider using whole wheat or gluten-free for dietary needs.
For the Salad
- Feta Cheese – Adds a creamy tang that pairs beautifully with other ingredients; substitute with dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
- Dried Cranberries – Brings sweetness and chewy texture to the salad; feel free to swap in raisins or chopped dates if desired.
- Baby Spinach – Adds a fresh, nutrient-rich boost; you can also use arugula or mixed greens for a different flavor profile.
- Walnuts – Introduce a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; any seed or nut can be used for those with nut allergies.
For the Orange Vinaigrette
- Olive Oil – Essential for a rich and flavorful vinaigrette; try avocado oil or a flavored oil for a twist.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Offers a zesty kick that brightens the entire dish; lemon juice is a great substitute for a tart flavor.
- Honey – Balances the acidity in the dressing with natural sweetness; maple syrup works well for a vegan-friendly alternative.
- Dijon Mustard – Provides a subtle tang and helps emulsify the dressing; yellow mustard can be a good substitution for a milder taste.
- Salt & Black Pepper – These seasonings enhance all the flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
Enjoy whipping up this delightful Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad to bring a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8 to 10 minutes. To ensure perfect texture for your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad, taste a piece just before draining—it should have a firm bite. After cooking, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined and emulsified, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. This orange vinaigrette is what brings your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad to life, so take your time to ensure all flavors meld perfectly.
Step 3: Mix the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped toasted walnuts, and fresh baby spinach. Use a gentle folding motion to mix the ingredients without breaking the feta too much. The contrasting colors and textures will make your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad visually appealing, creating excitement for the dish to come.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the prepared orange vinaigrette over the salad mixture, ensuring an even distribution. Carefully toss the ingredients together, using a light touch to combine everything without crushing the feta. As the vinaigrette coats the salad, you’ll see vibrant colors come together beautifully, making your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad not only delicious but also delightful for the eyes.
Step 5: Serve or Chill
Once everything is well mixed, you can serve your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad immediately for a fresh taste, or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Chilling will allow the ingredients to meld together, making each bite a burst of flavor. Whether enjoyed right away or later, this salad is sure to impress!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and make this dish your own with easy swaps and twists that elevate the flavors!
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Vegetable Variety: Add bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and freshness. They’ll not only boost flavor but also add delightful colors to your salad.
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Nut Substitutions: Swap walnuts for almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds. Each option will give it a unique crunch and flavor profile, ensuring your salad stays exciting.
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Creamy Alternatives: Try dairy-free cheese to keep it vegan-friendly. This keeps the salad creamy without sacrificing the deliciousness of feta.
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Sweetness Switch: Use maple syrup instead of honey to keep the vinaigrette vegan-friendly. The maple adds a lovely depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the orange.
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Citrus Twist: Swap fresh orange juice for lemon juice for a tangier vinaigrette. This small change will uplift the salad with a bright pop of flavor.
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Heat It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. The heat will contrast nicely with the sweet cranberries and creamy feta.
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Grilled Goodness: Introduce grilled zucchini or asparagus for a smoky flavor. Grilling these veggies prior brings out their natural sweetness, enriching the salad.
For more inspiration, try a sweet twist with my delightful Cranberry Walnut Bread or enjoy a fruity escape with a refreshing Cranberry Lime Fizz. Each variation is an invitation to explore delicious possibilities!
Tips for the Best Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
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Pasta Perfection: Ensure the penne pasta is cooked al dente; overcooked pasta can become mushy, affecting the salad’s texture.
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Gentle Mixing: When combining the salad ingredients, fold gently to maintain the feta’s distinct, creamy chunks, enhancing your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad’s presentation.
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Flavor Boost: Don’t skip refrigerating the salad for 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enriching the overall taste.
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Customize Freely: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or nuts based on your preferences—this salad’s versatility shines through customizable options.
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Fresh Ingredients: Prioritize fresh orange juice for the vinaigrette. It elevates the dressing’s brightness, making a noticeable difference in flavor.
What to Serve with Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this colorful salad with complementary sides that enhance its vibrant flavors!
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crispy texture adds a comforting touch, making it a perfect friend to the zesty salad.
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Grilled Veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables bring smokiness and extra nutrients, creating a wholesome balance on your plate.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, refreshing white pairs wonderfully with the orange vinaigrette’s tang, heightening each bite.
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Mediterranean Quinoa: This protein-packed dish echoes the salad’s Mediterranean flair, offering a satisfying contrast in texture.
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Hummus & Pita Chips: Creamy hummus with crunchy pita provides a delightful appetizer or side that’s easy to share.
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Fruit Salad: A light, sweet fruit medley acts as a refreshing palate cleanser, enhancing the meal’s overall brightness.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a cool sorbet offers a light finish that echoes the fresh citrus notes of the salad.
How to Store and Freeze Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Fridge: Store leftover Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss before serving to refresh and mix the flavors.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of the pasta and feta may change when thawed. Enjoy fresh for the best experience!
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the salad ingredients a day in advance without the vinaigrette. Layer everything in a container and add the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
Reheating: If you prefer it slightly warmed, gently heat the salad in a microwave for about 30 seconds, but be cautious to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Make Ahead Options
These Feta & Cranberry Penne Salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salad components—cooled penne, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. On the day of serving, just toss in the baby spinach and drizzle with the orange vinaigrette right before enjoying to keep it crisp and vibrant. This way, you can save time on busy weeknights while still enjoying a delicious, flavorful salad that’s just as delightful as if made fresh!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe and fresh ingredients for my salad?
Absolutely! For the freshest taste, choose firm and bright-colored baby spinach and ensure your feta cheese is creamy with no dark spots. Dried cranberries should be plump, while the oranges for juicing should feel heavy and have a smooth skin. These visual cues will make your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad the best it can be!
How should I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
You can store any leftover Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember to toss the salad gently before serving to mix up the ingredients, which helps bring back its vibrancy and flavor!
Can I freeze my Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of the pasta and feta can become mushy once thawed. For optimal freshness and quality, enjoy it right after preparing, or make it a day in advance (without dressing) for an easy meal prep option.
What are some common troubleshooting tips?
If your pasta gets overcooked, which can lead to a mushy salad, make sure to cook it al dente (about 8-10 minutes) and rinse with cold water after draining. Also, if the vinaigrette separates, whisk it again for an even consistency. Both will keep your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad looking and tasting delightful!
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Very! If you have guests with nut allergies, you can easily substitute walnuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch. As for pets, while the salad is safe for humans, avoid letting pets indulge in onion or feta, as they should not consume them. Generally, ingredients like pasta and spinach can be safe in small amounts, but moderation is key!
What if I want to make the salad ahead of time?
Make ahead with ease! Simply prep all the salad ingredients—boil your penne, chop the spinach, and mix in the cranberries and feta—then store them without the vinaigrette in the fridge. When ready to serve, just whisk the vinaigrette and drizzle it over the salad! This keeps everything fresh and crisp, perfect for busy days!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad for a Quick Flavor Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped toasted walnuts, and fresh baby spinach. Use a gentle folding motion to mix.
- Drizzle the prepared orange vinaigrette over the salad mixture, ensuring an even distribution, and carefully toss together.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
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