As I was tossing together a colorful mix of penne pasta, bright greens, and tangy feta, I couldn’t help but think how simple ingredients can create a culinary masterpiece. This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette has quickly become a go-to dish in my kitchen. It’s not only quick to prepare, taking just about 15 minutes, but it also impresses with its vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness. Whether you’re serving a crowd or looking to elevate your lunch game, this salad fits the bill. The combination of fresh spinach, arugula, and a zesty orange vinaigrette brings a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with the sweet cranberries and creamy feta. So, how about shaking up your routine with this delightful salad? Your taste buds (and time) will thank you!
Why is this salad a must-try?
Flavorful Fusion: The zesty orange vinaigrette perfectly complements the rich feta and sweet cranberries.
Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes, you’ll have a delightful dish that's ready to wow your guests.
Vibrant Colors: The beautiful blend of greens, reds, and whites makes this salad a stunning centerpiece.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main meal, side dish, or potluck favorite, making it ideal for any occasion!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables and feta, this salad is a guilt-free indulgence.
Elevate your meals with this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, and check out our serving suggestions for more creative ideas!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Penne pasta – 8 ounces, or substitute with any pasta shape you prefer for a creative twist!
For the Greens
• Fresh spinach – 1 cup, roughly chopped; it adds a lovely green color and nutrition.
• Fresh arugula – 1 cup, roughly chopped; brings a peppery kick that balances the sweetness of cranberries.
For the Salad Mix
• Feta cheese – 1 cup, crumbled; this creamy cheese enhances the flavors of the salad beautifully.
• Dried cranberries – ½ cup; these add a sweet pop that pairs well with the tangy vinaigrette.
• Cherry tomatoes – ½ cup, halved; their juiciness offers a refreshing contrast to the dish.
• Red onion – ¼ cup, thinly sliced; use it sparingly for a mild onion flavor that enhances the salad.
For the Orange Vinaigrette
• Olive oil – ¼ cup; a robust oil that acts as the base for this vibrant dressing.
• Fresh orange juice – ¼ cup; the star of the vinaigrette, bringing a citrusy brightness.
• Orange zest – 1 tablespoon; adds an aromatic depth to the overall flavor.
• Honey – 1 tablespoon; sweetens the vinaigrette, perfectly balancing the tanginess.
To Taste
• Salt and pepper – Adjust according to your preference; they enhance all the flavors in this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook for about 10 minutes, or until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Transfer the cooled penne to a spacious mixing bowl, ready for your delicious Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette.
Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup of olive oil, ¼ cup of fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Using a whisk, blend the ingredients together vigorously for about 1-2 minutes until you achieve a smooth, emulsified vinaigrette. The vibrant orange color should be bright and inviting, perfect for drizzling over your salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
To the bowl with the cooled penne pasta, add 1 cup each of roughly chopped fresh spinach and arugula, along with 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 colorful medley brings both flavor and nutrition, setting the stage for a delightful Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle your freshly made orange vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Using a large spoon, gently toss everything together until the pasta and greens are evenly coated with the dressing. Take care not to crush the feta as you mix; the goal is to combine flavors while keeping the texture intact for your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad.
Step 5: Taste and Season
After tossing the salad, take a moment to taste it. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed, ensuring the flavors are balanced. The sweetness of the cranberries combined with the tangy feta and fresh greens should create a harmonious blend in your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette.
Step 6: Chill the Salad
Once seasoned to your liking, cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances the overall taste. When ready, the salad will be chilled, refreshing, and begging to be enjoyed.
Step 7: Serve
After chilling, remove the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad from the fridge. You can serve it directly from the bowl or plate it for a beautiful presentation. Whether served cold or at room temperature, this vibrant salad is ready to impress your family and friends!
Expert Tips for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Chill for Flavor: Give your salad at least 30 minutes to chill; this resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully in your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep an eye on your penne pasta while cooking; overcooked pasta becomes mushy and doesn’t hold up well in salads.
Mix Gradually: When combining ingredients, add the vinaigrette gradually to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor and texture without overwhelming any component.
Feta Tips: Choose high-quality feta for the best flavor. Crumbled feta is less creamy than blocks, so adjust how you mix it into the salad to maintain its integrity.
Season Thoughtfully: Always taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning; the balance of salt and pepper can elevate your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad’s flavors significantly.
How to Store and Freeze Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Fridge: Store your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh while allowing the vinaigrette to marinate beautifully.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables can become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience!
Reheating: If you have leftovers, simply take them out of the fridge and enjoy them cold. If you prefer a warm version, briefly heat it in the microwave, but do so gently to preserve the ingredients' quality.
Prep Ahead: You can make the vinaigrette in advance and store it separately in the fridge. Mix with pasta salad just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette makes meal prep a breeze for busy cooks! You can cook the penne pasta up to 3 days in advance; just cool and refrigerate it in an airtight container. The orange vinaigrette can also be prepared ahead—store it in the fridge for up to 5 days to allow the flavors to deepen. For best results, combine the salad ingredients (greens, feta, cranberries, and tomatoes) on the day you plan to serve or within 24 hours of enjoying. Just remember to give the salad a gentle toss with the vinaigrette right before serving, ensuring it tastes just as fresh and vibrant as the day you made it!
What to Serve with Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
This vibrant dish brings together fresh flavors, making it the perfect centerpiece for your next meal.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken adds heartiness to the meal while complementing the tangy feta.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread enhances the dining experience, offering a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the salad. This is a classic pairing; it invites everyone to scoop up the leftovers.
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Roasted Vegetables: A colorful assortment of seasonal veggies offers earthy flavors that meld seamlessly with the bright notes of the salad. Serve them warm to create a comforting contrast.
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Quinoa: For a protein-packed side, fluffy quinoa brings a nutty flavor and chewy texture that rounds out your meal perfectly. It's a great option for those looking to add a wholesome grain.
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Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade provides a zesty balance to the salad's sweetness and is ideal for warm weather gatherings.
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Cheesecake: For a sweet finish, a slice of rich cheesecake offers a creamy texture and contrasting sweet flavor, making it an indulgent end to your meal.
Elevate your dining experience by mixing and matching these suggestions for a delightful spread!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this vibrant salad—there’s a world of flavors waiting for you to explore!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute penne pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa for a delightful variation that everyone can enjoy.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to add a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts the creamy feta and sweet cranberries.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette. It’s a simple tweak that enhances the flavor profile and gives your salad a little zing.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like basil or mint for an aromatic twist. They add freshness and a garden-like quality that’s truly pleasing.
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Creamy Alternative: Use goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy, creamy texture that changes the whole character of the salad. Your palate will appreciate the new dimension of flavor!
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Zesty Twist: Add the zest of a lemon along with the orange for a more citrusy explosion. This brightens the vinaigrette and adds an exciting layer of taste.
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Add Protein: Include some grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost, turning this delightful salad into a heartier meal option.
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Fruit Surprise: Replace dried cranberries with pomegranate seeds or diced apples for a seasonal surprise. These fruity additions provide a lovely crunch and a burst of juiciness.
With these variations, you’re well on your way to making a signature dish that suits your palate perfectly. Need further pairing ideas? Check out our perfect side dishes to complement your meal!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta is best for this salad?
Absolutely! While penne pasta works wonderfully, you can easily substitute it with other pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle for a fun twist. Just ensure whatever you choose has a similar cooking time to keep the texture perfect.
How should I store leftovers of the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
Store your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the freshness while allowing the flavors to develop. Just give it a gentle toss before serving if it seems a bit settled.
Can I freeze the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
I recommend avoiding freezing this salad, as the texture of the pasta and fresh vegetables can become mushy when thawed. To enjoy it at its best, whip it up fresh whenever possible!
What if I want to prepare this salad in advance?
Great idea! You can make the orange vinaigrette a day prior and store it in the refrigerator. Just keep the salad separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the greens stay fresh and vibrant while the flavors of the vinaigrette blend beautifully together.
How do I know if my feta cheese is fresh?
Look for feta that’s still moist and smells pleasantly tangy. Avoid any that has dark spots or strong odors. If you’re unsure, taste a small piece! Fresh feta should be creamy, crumbly, and have a slightly salty flavor without any bitterness.
Is this salad suitable for people with allergies?
While the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad is delightful, it is important to consider dietary restrictions. The salad contains dairy from the feta and potential allergens from honey. If you have guests with allergies, I suggest using a dairy-free cheese alternative and agave syrup instead of honey for a safe, delicious option!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Zesty Orange Vinaigrette
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- colander
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta or substitute with any pasta shape you prefer
For the Greens
- 1 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped
- 1 cup fresh arugula roughly chopped
For the Salad Mix
- 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
For the Orange Vinaigrette
- ¼ cup olive oil robust oil
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice the star of the vinaigrette
- 1 tablespoon orange zest adds aromatic depth
- 1 tablespoon honey to balance the tanginess
To Taste
- salt adjust according to your preference
- pepper adjust according to your preference
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook for about 10 minutes, or until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Transfer the cooled penne to a spacious mixing bowl.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup of olive oil, ¼ cup of fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Using a whisk, blend the ingredients together vigorously for about 1-2 minutes until you achieve a smooth, emulsified vinaigrette.
- To the bowl with the cooled penne pasta, add 1 cup each of roughly chopped fresh spinach and arugula, along with 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.
- Drizzle your freshly made orange vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Using a large spoon, gently toss everything together until the pasta and greens are evenly coated with the dressing.
- After tossing the salad, take a moment to taste it. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Once seasoned to your liking, cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- After chilling, remove the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad from the fridge. Serve it directly from the bowl or plate it for a beautiful presentation.
