As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant colors of fresh ingredients brought a smile to my face. The Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that perfectly balances bright flavors with hearty textures. In just about 55 minutes—including a simple chill—the recipe transforms everyday penne pasta into a refreshing masterpiece, ideal for lunch, dinner, or that next potluck. The juicy sweetness of dried cranberries paired with crumbled feta creates a harmonious taste that will delight your family and friends. Plus, it's effortlessly quick to throw together, making it a great option for those evenings when cooking feels overwhelming. Are you ready to elevate your pasta game and experience this gorgeous salad?
Why is This Salad a Must-Try?
Vibrant colors: The Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad features a stunning mix of greens, red onions, and juicy tomatoes that not only look beautiful but also elevate your dining experience.
Refreshing sweetness: With tangy feta and sweet cranberries, every bite offers a delightful contrast that dances on your palate.
Quick and easy: Whip this up in under an hour, making it a perfect busy weeknight meal or a fantastic side for gatherings.
Versatile dish: Serve it as a light lunch or a show-stopping side at barbecues—the options are endless!
Chill-friendly: Prepare in advance and let it cool, allowing flavors to meld together for a tasty experience.
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Ingredients
• Fresh, vibrant, and delicious!
For the Pasta
• Penne pasta – a delightful choice that holds the dressing and other ingredients beautifully.
For the Greens
• Fresh spinach – adds a pop of color and nutrients to your salad.
• Fresh arugula – brings a peppery bite that complements the sweetness of cranberries.
For the Mix-ins
• Feta cheese – crumbled for that tangy, creamy touch that pairs perfectly with sweet cranberries.
• Dried cranberries – their chewy texture and sweetness give each bite a burst of flavor.
• Cherry tomatoes – halved for juiciness, brightening the salad with their freshness.
• Red onion – thinly sliced to add crunch and mildness that balances the flavors.
For the Vinaigrette
• Olive oil – the perfect base for a rich, velvety dressing.
• Fresh orange juice – brings a zesty sweetness that elevates the other flavors.
• Orange zest – for an added aromatic kick that enhances the overall taste.
• Honey – a touch of natural sweetness that rounds out the vinaigrette beautifully.
• Salt and pepper – to taste, ensuring all flavors shine through.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook for about 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Once cooled, transfer the penne to a large mixing bowl to prepare it for the salad.
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. Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing until the vinaigrette is well emulsified and smooth. This orange vinaigrette will beautifully complement the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad.
Step 3: Combine the Greens and Mix-Ins
To the bowl with cooled penne pasta, add 1 cup of roughly chopped fresh spinach, 1 cup of roughly chopped fresh 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. This vibrant mix creates a wonderful base for your salad.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the prepared orange vinaigrette over the mixed salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until each ingredient is evenly coated in the dressing, showcasing the beautiful colors of the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad. Take your time to ensure a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper as needed. This is your chance to fine-tune the flavors to your liking, ensuring that the tartness of the feta and sweetness of the cranberries are just right.
Step 6: Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste and making each bite even more delicious.
Step 7: Serve the Salad
Once chilled, remove the salad from the refrigerator and give it a gentle stir. The salad can be served cold or at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for any occasion, from casual lunches to special gatherings. Enjoy this refreshing and delightful dish!
How to Store and Freeze Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier on day two!
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad, as the texture of the pasta and feta will change once thawed. Enjoy fresh!
Reheating: This salad is delightful cold or at room temperature, and it’s best served chilled to savor those refreshing flavors!
Tips for the Best Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
• Balance Flavors: Ensure a good balance of sweet and tangy by adjusting the honey and orange juice in your vinaigrette to suit your taste preferences.
• Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling step! Allowing the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps flavors meld beautifully.
• Pasta Cooking: Watch your penne while cooking; overcooked pasta can turn mushy. Aim for al dente to keep it firm and flavorful.
• Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients like organic feta and ripe tomatoes. It makes a world of difference in flavor and overall dish quality.
• Meal Prep: Make this salad ahead of time for quick lunches or potlucks! It stays delicious for a few days in the fridge, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
Make Ahead Options
These Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette components are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can cook the penne pasta and prepare the orange vinaigrette up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cooled pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it, while keeping the dressing separate to maintain freshness. The chopped spinach, arugula, and other mix-ins can also be prepped up to 3 days ahead—just assemble them in the fridge and add to the pasta when ready to serve. To finish, drizzle the chilled vinaigrette over the salad, toss gently, and enjoy a time-saving, flavorful dish that’s just as delicious!
What to Serve with Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
Add a sprinkle of excitement to your meal by exploring these delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of your refreshing salad.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken adds protein that complements the salad's tanginess while keeping your meal balanced and satisfying.
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Garlic Breadsticks: The buttery, crispy texture pairs beautifully with the salad, providing a delightful contrast to the crunchy greens.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies add warmth and earthiness, enhancing the fresh flavors of the salad while bringing color to your plate.
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Quinoa Stuffed Peppers: These hearty little wonders offer a chewy texture and a burst of flavors, making for a wholesome duo with the pasta salad.
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Citrus Spritzer: A refreshing drink combining sparkling water, fresh orange juice, and mint will mirror the salad's zesty notes and cleanse your palate between bites.
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Berry Tart: Sweet and slightly tart, a berry tart will satisfy your sweet tooth without overshadowing the salad's flavors, making for the perfect ending.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Grigio brings a lovely acidity that echoes the salad's refreshing citrus notes, elevating your dining experience.
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Variations
Feel free to tailor your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette to match your taste and dietary needs; the possibilities are endless!
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Gluten-Free: Swap penne for gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this vibrant dish.
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Veggie-Loaded: Add bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado for extra texture and flavor. The creaminess of avocado pairs beautifully with the tang of feta.
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Nuts for Crunch: Sprinkle in walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Their nutty flavor enhances the overall dish and brings a whole new dimension to each bite.
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Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an aromatic twist. The herbs’ fragrant notes elevate the freshness of the salad.
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Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier salad that turns this side into a complete meal. You'll love the added protein and satisfaction!
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Spicy Kick: Want some heat? Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a zesty kick that might surprise your taste buds.
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Different Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own personality, keeping things exciting.
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Dried Fruits: Experiment with dried cherries, apricots, or even raisins for a sweeter touch. They blend well with the feta and cranberries, enhancing the overall complexity of flavors.
Embrace these variations to discover your perfect version of this delightful salad. If you’re up for more ideas, check out my tips for making the most out of salads like this one!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe cherry tomatoes for the salad?
Absolutely! Look for cherry tomatoes that are firm, plump, and have rich, vibrant colors (think deep red or yellow). Avoid any that have dark spots or seem overly soft, as they can spoil quickly and affect the taste of your salad.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! Leftovers of your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld further, so it's delicious even on day two!
Can I freeze the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
It's best not to freeze this salad. Freezing can alter the texture of the pasta and feta once thawed, potentially making them mushy and unappealing. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience!
What if my pasta is overcooked?
If your penne turns out overcooked, it's not the end of the world! While it won't have the firm texture you desire, try to toss everything gently together to avoid further breaking the pasta. For future reference, stick to cooking the pasta al dente, as it will hold up better in the salad.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Great question! This salad contains feta cheese, which is not recommended for dogs or cats due to lactose intolerance. Additionally, if you have any cheese allergies, you can substitute the feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always check ingredients if you're serving guests with food allergies!
How can I make this dish more filling?
If you want to add some protein, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even diced avocado for a hearty touch! These additions will still keep the salad fresh and increase its nutrition. Enjoy the flexibility while keeping that beautiful Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad vibe.
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook for about 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and honey. Add salt and pepper to taste and mix until well emulsified.
- To the bowl with cooled penne, add spinach, arugula, feta, cranberries, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve the salad cold or at room temperature, enjoying the refreshing flavors.
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