This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a light lunch, this salad stands out due to its unique combination of tangy feta and sweet cranberries. The homemade orange vinaigrette adds a zesty touch that elevates every bite, making it a must-try for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavorful Combination – The contrast of tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts creates a delicious medley that excites the palate.
- Versatile Dish – Enjoy it as a hearty main dish or as a refreshing side salad alongside grilled meats or sandwiches.
- Healthy Ingredients – Packed with nutrients from spinach and whole grains from penne pasta, this salad is as nutritious as it is tasty.
- Make-Ahead Option – Prepare the salad in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand will ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot – Necessary for boiling the penne pasta to al dente perfection.
- Mixing bowl – Ideal for combining all the salad ingredients without making a mess.
- Whisk – Essential for thoroughly mixing the orange vinaigrette to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Ingredients
Pasta and Greens
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups baby spinach
Cheeses and Nuts
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
Fruits
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
Aromatics and Seasonings
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Orange Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Fresh orange juice
- Olive oil
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked penne
- Crumbled feta
- Dried cranberries
- Chopped toasted walnuts
- Baby spinach
- Thinly sliced red onion
Step 4: Dress & Toss
- Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the salad.
- Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve immediately.
- For enhanced flavor, refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Enjoy your delicious Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette!
How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.
As a Main Dish
- A hearty option for lunch or dinner, this salad can stand alone as a satisfying main course.
As a Side Salad
- Perfect alongside grilled chicken or fish, it complements the flavors of the main dish beautifully.
At Potlucks or Picnics
- This salad travels well, making it an excellent choice for gatherings. Just pack it in a sealed container!
With Bread
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet fresh.
On a Bed of Greens
- For an elegant presentation, serve the salad on top of mixed greens or arugula.
How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
To make your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette even better, consider these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh baby spinach and high-quality feta will enhance the overall taste.
- Adjust Sweetness – Feel free to modify the honey in the vinaigrette based on your preference for sweetness.
- Chill Before Serving – Refrigerating the salad for about 15 minutes allows flavors to meld more beautifully.
- Add Protein – Include grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra protein boost if desired.
- Experiment with Nuts – Try substituting walnuts with pecans or almonds for different textures and flavors.
- Include Seasonal Veggies – Toss in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Pairing side dishes with your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.
- Grilled Chicken – Marinated and grilled chicken breasts add protein and flavor that complements the salad.
- Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal roasted veggies brings out earthy flavors that balance the salad’s sweetness.
- Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover vinaigrette from your plate.
- Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa pilaf provides a nutty flavor and pairs wonderfully with the medley of ingredients in the salad.
- Caprese Skewers – These fresh skewers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing bite that complements the salad well.
- Hummus and Pita Chips – Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips makes for a delightful appetizer alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid to ensure your salad shines.
- Using Overcooked Pasta – Cooking your penne pasta for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow the package instructions and taste-test for al dente.
- Skipping the Rinse – Not rinsing the pasta after cooking can cause it to stick together. Make sure to rinse under cold water to keep it separate and fresh.
- Inadequate Mixing – Failing to toss the salad well can result in uneven distribution of flavors. Take your time mixing everything thoroughly, especially with the vinaigrette.
- Using Pre-Packaged Dressing – Relying on store-bought dressings may not deliver the same flavor as a homemade vinaigrette. Whipping up your orange vinaigrette is quick and enhances freshness.
- Ignoring Fresh Ingredients – Using old or wilted spinach and stale walnuts can dull the flavors. Always opt for fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
- Freezing is not recommended due to the pasta’s texture.
- If necessary, freeze components separately (pasta, dressing) and combine when ready to eat.
Reheating Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and reheat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop – In a non-stick pan over medium heat, stir gently until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute penne with fusilli or rotini for a different texture.
What can I add for extra protein?
Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for an additional protein boost.
How long does this salad last?
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette lasts up to 3 days in the fridge when stored properly.
Is there a vegan option?
You can replace feta cheese with a plant-based alternative and use agave syrup instead of honey.
Final Thoughts
This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or seasonal vegetables. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. This easy-to-make salad is ideal for potlucks, picnics, or as a light lunch on busy days. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious meal featuring wholesome penne pasta and fresh baby spinach, all topped with a zesty homemade orange vinaigrette. Whether served as a main course or a delightful side, this salad is sure to impress your guests or elevate your everyday meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked penne, feta cheese, cranberries, walnuts, spinach, and red onion.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
