As I tossed together vibrant greens and fragrant herbs, I couldn’t help but smile at the simplicity and joy a good salad brings. This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a true gem, merging the hearty comfort of al dente pasta with refreshing flavors that reel you in for another bite. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or as a dazzling side at gatherings, and best of all, it comes together in just under 30 minutes—what more could a home chef ask for? With bursts of sweetness from dried cranberries and a zesty orange vinaigrette that dances on your palate, this dish elevates the everyday into something special. Ready to discover how this salad can transform your meal? Let's dive in!
Why is this salad a must-try?
Flavorful Fusion: The combination of feta cheese and sweet dried cranberries creates a delightful contrast that will have your taste buds singing.
Quick Preparation: Whipping up this salad takes just under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Freshness Galore: With a vibrant mix of fresh greens like spinach and arugula, each bite is packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free pleasure.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main dish or a side alongside something hearty, like Crispy Orange Chicken, and watch it disappear!
Make-ahead Friendly: Refrigerate for 30 minutes, and the flavors meld beautifully, allowing you to prepare this salad in advance, ideal for meal prep enthusiasts.
Dive into this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, and you'll find it’s not just a salad—it’s a celebration!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Ingredients
Discover the delightful ingredients for this refreshing salad that everyone will love!
For the Pasta
- Penne pasta – 8 ounces; this classic shape perfectly holds the vinaigrette and balances the salad.
For the Greens
- Fresh spinach – 1 cup, roughly chopped; adds a mild flavor and vibrant color to the mix.
- Fresh arugula – 1 cup, roughly chopped; provides a peppery note that enhances the salad's complexity.
For the Salad Mix
- Feta cheese – 1 cup, crumbled; brings creaminess and a delightful salty punch.
- Dried cranberries – ½ cup; these add a burst of sweetness, making this salad irresistible.
- Cherry tomatoes – ½ cup, halved; they add juiciness and a fresh taste.
- Red onion – ¼ cup, thinly sliced; for a crisp, slightly sweet flavor that rounds out the salad.
For the Orange Vinaigrette
- Olive oil – ¼ cup; helps to create a smooth dressing that brings the salad together.
- Fresh orange juice – ¼ cup; adds a bright citrus flavor that enlivens every bite of the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad.
- Orange zest – 1 tablespoon; intensifies the orange flavor, making the vinaigrette even more refreshing.
- Honey – 1 tablespoon; balances the acidity of the dressing with a hint of natural sweetness.
- Salt and pepper – to taste; essential for elevating all the flavors in this vibrant salad.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt, then carefully add the 8 ounces of penne pasta. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until al dente, checking occasionally. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the cooled penne to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of olive oil, ¼ cup of fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes a smooth, emulsified vinaigrette. Taste and season with salt and pepper to balance the flavors. Set this delightful orange vinaigrette aside for later.
Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
To the mixing bowl with the cooled penne, add 1 cup of roughly chopped spinach, 1 cup of roughly chopped arugula, 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, ½ cup of dried cranberries, ½ cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion. Gently toss these vibrant ingredients together, creating a colorful base for your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the prepared orange vinaigrette over the pasta salad mixture. Using a large spoon, gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing, and the colors blend beautifully. This step ensures that the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad is bursting with flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Adjust the Seasoning
Take a moment to taste your salad. If desired, you can adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or freshly cracked pepper to enhance the flavors further. This step ensures your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad is perfectly seasoned and ready to wow your guests.
Step 6: Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes; this resting time lets the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad.
Step 7: Serve the Salad
Once chilled, your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is ready to serve. You can offer it cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Enjoy the refreshing taste and delightful textures as you dig into this vibrant salad!
Make Ahead Options
These Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette are perfect for busy weeknights and can really save you time! You can prepare the penne pasta and chop the greens up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. Additionally, whisk together the orange vinaigrette and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—this also helps the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, just combine the pasta, greens, and dressing, toss gently, and taste for seasoning. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delightful flavors in your salad while cutting down your prep time significantly!
How to Store and Freeze Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the ingredients fresh while allowing flavors to meld and deepen.
Freezer: It's best not to freeze the salad, as the textures of the fresh vegetables and feta will degrade. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!
Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently reheat your salad without the dressing in a skillet on low heat. Once warmed, add back the dressing for a fresh finish.
Make-ahead: Prepare the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad in advance for gatherings, letting it chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor before serving.
Expert Tips for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Timing is Key: Start by cooking the pasta and preparing the vinaigrette simultaneously to speed up your prep time.
Taste Before Chilling: Always taste the salad before refrigerating. Adjust the seasoning as the flavors will enhance while chilling.
Fresh Is Best: Use fresh spinach and arugula for optimal flavor and crunch in your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad. Avoid wilted greens!
Vinaigrette Texture: Whisk the vinaigrette until emulsified for a creamy consistency that clings perfectly to your pasta and greens.
Add Texture: Consider adding nuts or seeds for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy feta and juicy cranberries.
What to Serve with Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Looking to create a memorable meal experience around this vibrant salad? Here are some delicious pairings to elevate your dining table.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken adds protein to the meal, balancing the salad's refreshing flavors beautifully. Pair with a light seasoning for a harmonious blend.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread complements the bright notes of the salad. Its crispy texture and buttery aroma invite you to savor each bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables, seasoned with herbs, enhances the natural sweetness of the cranberries and the tanginess of the feta.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This hearty side dish offers a nutty flavor and extra nutrients, making it an excellent complement to the creamy feta and zesty vinaigrette.
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Lemonade Spritzer: A refreshing, citrusy drink rounds out the meal, complementing the orange vinaigrette's flavors while keeping things light and lively.
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Chocolate Mousse: Treat yourself to a decadent chocolate mousse after the salad for a sweet contrast. Its richness will leave everyone satisfied while balancing the salad's tartness.
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Variations
Feel free to creatively personalize this salad and enhance its flavor and texture profile, making it truly your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute penne pasta with gluten-free pasta to enjoy the same delightful textures without the gluten.
- Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a hearty boost that makes this salad a satisfying main dish.
- Nutty Twist: Toss in toasted walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and earthy flavor that beautifully complements the feta.
- Creamy Version: Replace crumbled feta with creamy goat cheese or burrata for a richer, creamier experience with every bite.
- Fruit Infusion: Swap dried cranberries for diced apples or pears to introduce a refreshing crunch and different sweetness to the mix.
- Heat It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the vinaigrette for a spicy kick that elevates the dish.
- Herbaceous Burst: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or mint to enhance freshness while bringing vibrant flavor notes to the salad.
- Citrus Variety: Change up the orange vinaigrette by using lemon or lime juice, infusing a new zesty brightness while keeping it delicious!
Experiment with these variations, and you'll discover countless ways to love this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad! For more delightful recipes, you might enjoy making the refreshing Avocado Corn Salad or the hearty Strawberry Chicken Salad.
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness for my ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting spinach and arugula, look for vibrant, crisp leaves without dark spots or wilting. For the cherry tomatoes, choose those that are firm and bright, as they will add the best flavor. Feta cheese should be fresh and crumbly but not overly dry or past its expiration date.
How should I store leftovers of the salad?
To keep your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad fresh, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. It will last up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good toss before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Can I freeze this salad?
It’s best not to freeze your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad. Freezing can alter the texture of the fresh greens and feta cheese, causing them to become mushy when thawed. Enjoy the delightful flavors fresh or store it in the fridge for a later meal!
What should I do if my pasta is overcooked?
If you've overcooked the pasta, don't fret! Try rinsing it under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking. For future reference, aim for al dente pasta, which should have a slight bite to it. This will also hold up better in the salad.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes! This salad contains feta cheese, which is a dairy product, so be cautious if you have a lactose intolerance or dairy allergy. For a dairy-free option, consider substituting with tofu feta or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Always check labels for any additional allergens, especially in packaged ingredients like dried cranberries, which can sometimes contain added sugars or preservatives.
Delicious Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- small bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta this classic shape perfectly holds the vinaigrette and balances the salad
For the Greens
- 1 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped adds a mild flavor and vibrant color
- 1 cup fresh arugula roughly chopped provides a peppery note
For the Salad Mix
- 1 cup feta cheese crumbled brings creaminess and a delightful salty punch
- ½ cup dried cranberries adds a burst of sweetness
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved adds juiciness
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced for a crisp flavor
For the Orange Vinaigrette
- ¼ cup olive oil creates a smooth dressing
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice adds bright citrus flavor
- 1 tablespoon orange zest intensifies the orange flavor
- 1 tablespoon honey balances the acidity with sweetness
- salt and pepper to taste, essential for flavors
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt, then add the penne pasta. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Transfer cooled penne to a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and honey until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
- To the bowl with the cooled penne, add the chopped spinach, arugula, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Gently toss to combine.
- Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Taste the salad and adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!
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