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Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad

Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a quick and delightful dish that impresses with its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz penne pasta Cook until al dente for the perfect bite.
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled Adds a creamy and tangy touch that enhances the salad's flavor.
  • ½ cup dried cranberries Provides a sweet-tart burst that balances the salty feta beautifully.
  • ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
  • 2 cups baby spinach A healthy green base full of nutrients.
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced Offers a subtle sharpness that brightens the taste.
For the Orange Vinaigrette
  • ¼ cup fresh orange juice Freshly squeezed juice enhances flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil A heart-healthy oil that helps to emulsify the vinaigrette.
  • 1 tablespoon honey Adds a touch of sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Brings a hint of spice.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper Adds a slight heat.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • small mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

How to Make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water to cool, and set aside.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped toasted walnuts, baby spinach, and thinly sliced red onion.
  4. Drizzle the freshly made orange vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Optional: Garnish with extra feta or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added freshness.

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