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, and crunchy toasted walnuts, paired with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, makes every bite truly irresistible. Ideal as a light meal or a side dish, this pasta salad is quick and easy to prepare, ensuring it will impress your family and friends at gatherings or casual dinners.

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
• For the Pasta Salad
• For the Lemon Vinaigrette
• How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Step 1: Boil the Rigatoni
• Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette
• Step 3: Mix the Salad
• Step 4: Toss and Serve
• How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• As a Standalone Meal
• As a Side Dish
• For Meal Prep
• At Potlucks and Picnics
• With Extra Toppings
• 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?
• Can I add protein to this salad?
• What should I serve with Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and zesty lemon creates a delicious explosion of taste in every bite.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from spinach and healthy fats from walnuts, this salad is both satisfying and good for you.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a light meal on its own or serve it as a side dish at barbecues or potlucks.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This pasta salad tastes even better after resting for a bit, making it ideal for meal prep or picnics.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette smoothly, having the right tools handy is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot
• Colander
• Whisk
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot: Essential for boiling the rigatoni until perfectly al dente.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta efficiently without losing any pieces.
• Whisk: Makes mixing the lemon vinaigrette easy and ensures all ingredients are well combined.
• Large mixing bowl: Necessary to combine all ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 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

For the Lemon 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

1. In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk everything together until smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rigatoni along with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped toasted walnuts, baby spinach, and sliced red onion.
2. Drizzle the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

1. Gently toss all ingredients together until well coated with the vinaigrette.
2. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 15 minutes to enhance flavor before serving.

Enjoy your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that make it an excellent choice for any meal.

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Meal

• This salad is hearty enough to be served as a light main course. Pair it with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish to complement the flavors of the salad. The lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch to any protein.

For Meal Prep

• Pack individual servings for lunch throughout the week. The flavors develop beautifully when stored in the fridge overnight.

At Potlucks and Picnics

• Bring this vibrant salad to gatherings. Its colorful presentation and unique flavor combination are sure to impress friends and family.

With Extra Toppings

• Add sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes on top for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. These toppings pair wonderfully with the feta and cranberries.

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.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality feta cheese elevate the overall taste of your salad.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the honey in the vinaigrette depending on your preference for sweetness.
• Customize add-ins: Experiment with other ingredients like bell peppers or cucumbers for added texture and flavor.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavors, making each bite more enjoyable.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, but be mindful that the spinach may wilt over time.
• Serve at room temperature: If you have chilled it, let it sit out for a few minutes before serving for better flavor balance.

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

While this pasta salad is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Simple marinated chicken skewers cooked on the grill provide protein and contrast nicely with the salad’s flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection adds depth and color to your meal.
3. Caprese Salad: The fresh mozzarella and basil in Caprese salad harmonize beautifully with the tangy feta in your rigatoni dish.
4. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and great for scooping up any remaining dressing from your plate.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs pairs well without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar complements the richness of feta while adding crunch to your meal.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or beans can provide an extra layer of nutrition and flair.
8. Hummus and Pita Chips: This simple appetizer is perfect for nibbling before serving your main course, enhancing Mediterranean vibes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Not cooking rigatoni properly: Ensure you follow the package instructions for cooking time. Undercooking or overcooking can affect texture.
• Skipping the cold rinse: Rinsing the pasta under cold water stops the cooking process. This step is crucial for keeping the rigatoni firm and fresh.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale nuts or wilted spinach can diminish flavor. Always check your ingredients before preparing the salad.
• Overdressing the salad: Use the lemon vinaigrette sparingly. Too much dressing can make the salad soggy.
• Not letting it chill: Allowing the salad to sit for about 15 minutes enhances flavors. Don’t rush this step for the best taste.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette in an airtight container.
• It can be kept refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

• Freezing is not recommended due to potential changes in texture, especially of feta cheese and spinach.
• If necessary, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.

Reheating Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While rigatoni is excellent, you can substitute with penne, farfalle, or any pasta you prefer.

How do I make this salad gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta as a substitute for regular rigatoni. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas make great additions if you’re looking for extra protein.

What should I serve with Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

This salad pairs well with grilled vegetables or as a side dish for meats like chicken or fish.

Final Thoughts

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a light meal or side dish, it offers endless customization options. Try adding roasted veggies or different nuts to suit your taste!