After a long day of juggling errands and work, I often find myself seeking comfort in the kitchen, where delightful flavors come together effortlessly. This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette has become my go-to quick dish that never fails to impress. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients are a feast for the eyes, and each bite brings a burst of tangy sweetness that’s simply addictive.
As I whirl the orange vinaigrette together, I can’t help but remember the first time I dared to mix feta and cranberries. It was a chance discovery, one that turned a few simple pantry staples into a memorable meal, and I’ve been making it ever since. Ideal for lazy weekends or last-minute gatherings, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that proves healthy can be delicious.
So, if you’re looking to add some zest back into your weeknight dinners, join me in crafting this colorful and nutritious bowl of goodness. You might just find your new favorite salad!
Why You'll Love This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- The combination of feta and cranberries creates a delightful contrast of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
- Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand, ensuring it can be enjoyed any time of year.
- With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this salad is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it an impressive dish to share with friends and family.
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Ingredients
Get ready to create a delicious bowl of flavor!
For the Salad
- 8 oz penne pasta – Cook until al dente for the best texture.
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled – Adds a creamy and tangy element that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
- ½ cup dried cranberries – Use these for a sweet contrast that balances the feta and complements the salad’s overall flavor.
- ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped – These provide a satisfying crunch; feel free to substitute with almonds if preferred.
- 2 cups baby spinach – A fresh and nutritious base that wilts beautifully with the warm pasta.
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced – Adds a crisp bite; soak in water for a milder taste if desired.
For the Orange Vinaigrette
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice – Brightens the dish with zesty freshness; freshly squeezed yields the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps to balance the acidity of the orange juice; a good quality extra-virgin olive oil works wonders.
- 1 tablespoon honey – Sweetens the vinaigrette and complements the savory salad ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy kick to the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of warmth without overpowering the dish.
This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad is bursting with colors and flavors, making it a delightful addition to your meal repertoire!
How to Make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
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Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.
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Make the Orange Vinaigrette – In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy, enhancing the vinaigrette’s flavor.
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Assemble the Salad – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, baby spinach, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss gently to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
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Dress & Toss – Drizzle the prepared orange vinaigrette over the salad. Toss everything gently yet thoroughly to coat each component in the stunning dressing.
Optional: Garnish with extra walnuts for added crunch and a pop of texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: While it’s not recommended to freeze the salad due to the creamy feta and fresh spinach, you can freeze the cooked pasta separately for up to 2 months and add fresh ingredients later.
Reheating: If you prefer warm pasta, reheat the frozen pasta in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then mix with fresh ingredients and vinaigrette just before serving.
Serving: Toss with a bit of extra orange vinaigrette before serving if the pasta has been stored to regain its delicious flavor and texture.
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful tweaks to make this salad truly your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta for a delicious, hearty option.
- Nut-Free: Swap out walnuts for sunflower seeds if allergies are a concern but still crave that crunch.
- Vegan: Use tofu feta and a maple syrup alternative for the vinaigrette to keep it dairy-free and plant-based.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a zesty twist that’ll awaken your taste buds!
- Mediterranean Twist: Toss in some chopped olives or artichokes to enhance the Mediterranean flavors of the salad.
- Herb Infusion: Garnish with fresh basil or mint to introduce a refreshing herbal note alongside the orange.
- Fruit Variation: Switch out cranberries for dried apricots or cherries for a different sweetness that pairs beautifully.
- Creamy Addition: Try mixing in creamy avocado chunks for an extra layer of flavor and luxurious creaminess.
Each of these variations brings its own story and flavor adventure, inviting you to make the dish reflect your unique tastes and preferences!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad ahead of time can save you precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can cook and cool the penne pasta up to 24 hours in advance, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The orange vinaigrette can also be whisked together and stored in the fridge for about 3 days, just make sure to give it a good shake before using. For best results, layer the ingredients in your serving bowl—with the spinach and feta on top—until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh and crunchy. When it’s time to eat, simply toss the pasta with the dressing and enjoy a delightful, hassle-free meal!
What to Serve with Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
This vibrant salad is a delightful centerpiece, perfect for elevating your dining experience with both texture and flavor.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken adds a heartiness that balances the fresher elements of the salad beautifully.
- Herbed Quinoa: This nutty, fluffy side brings a lovely chewiness and will soak up any extra vinaigrette you might drizzle.
For a cozy pairing, consider the warmth of grilled chicken on a cool evening. The savory profile complements the sweet and tangy notes of the salad.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery bread rounds out the meal, offering a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the salad’s texture.
- Classic Caesar Salad: This creamy, crisp counterpart enhances the overall flavor and keeps the greens theme throughout your meal.
If you want something light yet filling, a Caesar salad provides a classic, creamy texture that contrasts with the bright vinaigrette.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: Refreshing and bubbly, this drink enhances the zesty orange notes of the salad and cleanses the palate.
- Panna Cotta with Berries: This creamy dessert provides a delightful ending, with its smooth texture complementing the tartness of cranberries.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best texture in your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad, be sure to cook the pasta until al dente, as overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- When preparing the orange vinaigrette, whisk the ingredients vigorously to ensure a creamy and well-emulsified dressing that coats the salad evenly.
- To enhance the flavors, let your salad sit for a few minutes after dressing it; this allows the ingredients to meld perfectly.
- Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning, as the saltiness of feta can vary by brand, so you might need to balance it with a bit more black pepper or honey if needed.
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta should I use for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
Absolutely! While penne is the classic choice for this salad, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes such as farfalle or fusilli. Just ensure they’re cooked al dente to maintain the right texture.
How can I tell if my feta cheese is fresh?
You want to look for feta that is creamy and crumbly while avoiding any that appears overly dry or has dark spots all over, which could indicate spoilage. Fresh feta should also have a pleasant aroma, not sour.
Can I store leftovers of Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
Yes, you can! Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the ingredients fresh, I recommend adding the orange vinaigrette right before serving.
How can I freeze this salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing the entire salad, as the creamy feta and fresh spinach don’t freeze well. However, you can freeze the cooked pasta separately for up to 2 months. To do this:
- Let the cooked pasta cool completely.
- Place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
- When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost in the fridge overnight and toss with fresh salad ingredients and vinaigrette just before serving.
Is there a way to adapt this recipe for people with nut allergies?
Very much so! If you want to make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad nut-free, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds or crispy chickpeas for added crunch without the nuts. Just be sure to double-check any other ingredients for possible cross-contamination with nuts.
How long does the orange vinaigrette last?
The homemade orange vinaigrette can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week! Just give it a good shake before use, as the ingredients may separate over time.
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, baby spinach, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss gently.
- Drizzle the prepared orange vinaigrette over the salad. Toss everything gently yet thoroughly to coat each component.
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