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Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad

Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for quick lunches or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

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.
  • ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped These provide a satisfying crunch; feel free to substitute with almonds.
  • 2 cups baby spinach A fresh and nutritious base that wilts beautifully.
  • 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 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.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors; adjust according to your taste.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper Adds a hint of warmth.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • small bowl
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  1. 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.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
  3. 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.
  4. Drizzle the prepared orange vinaigrette over the salad. Toss everything gently yet thoroughly to coat each component.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best texture, be sure to cook the pasta until al dente. Let the salad sit after dressing to meld flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed.

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