Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish perfect for any occasion! The creamy feta, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy toasted walnuts, and zesty lemon vinaigrette create an irresistible combination. It’s ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal at home. Quick and easy to prepare, this pasta salad will impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of feta, cranberries, and walnuts creates a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors.
- Quick Preparation: Made in just 20 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or a delightful side that pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like spinach and walnuts, it’s not only tasty but good for you too.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for meal prep or parties; it tastes even better when the flavors meld together.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to whip up your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the rigatoni pasta evenly until al dente.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending the lemon vinaigrette smoothly without lumps.
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
Salad Ingredients
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
- Boil water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt.
- Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the cooked pasta using a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- The cooled rigatoni pasta,
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese,
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries,
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts,
- 2 cups baby spinach,
- And 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
- Drizzle the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad mixture.
- Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with dressing.
Step 5: Serve or Chill
- Serve immediately for fresh flavors or chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to enhance taste before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette!
How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
As a Main Course
- This salad can be served as a light main dish, perfect for lunch or dinner. Pair it with some crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
With Grilled Chicken
- For added protein, serve the salad alongside grilled chicken. The flavors of the feta and cranberries complement the marinated chicken beautifully.
As a Side Dish
- It makes an excellent side dish for barbecues or potlucks. Its vibrant colors and fresh taste add variety to any meal.
In a Wrap
- Use the salad as a filling in wraps. Simply place some salad into a tortilla for a quick, healthy lunch option on the go.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. This adds an extra layer of freshness and enhances the overall presentation.
How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
To achieve the best results, keep these tips in mind when preparing your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and high-quality feta cheese will greatly enhance the flavor of your salad.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the rigatoni until al dente. This ensures it retains a good texture and doesn’t become mushy.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the salad ahead of time and let it chill for 15 minutes in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the lemon vinaigrette seasoning before adding it to the salad. A pinch more salt or pepper can make all the difference.
- Add Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve Chilled: This pasta salad is best enjoyed chilled, making it an ideal dish for warm days or picnics.
Best Side Dishes for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Pairing side dishes with your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad can elevate your meal further. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add smoky flavors that complement the freshness of the salad.
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread brings warmth and richness that pairs nicely with this light pasta dish.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty contrast to the lightness of the salad.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for an easy finger food that enhances Italian flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with veggies adds more texture while keeping it healthy.
- Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with pita chips and veggie sticks for a creamy dip that complements your rigatoni salad well.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers sweetness that balances well with tangy feta and cranberries.
- Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses paired with nuts and dried fruits makes for an elegant addition to your meal setup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rigatoni too long can lead to mushy pasta. Always follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
- Skipping the rinse: Not rinsing the pasta after boiling can make it stick together. Rinse under cold water to stop cooking and separate the noodles.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality feta or stale nuts can dampen flavors. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
- Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your salad flat. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed.
- Forgetting to chill: Serving immediately can mask flavors. Chill for at least 15 minutes to enhance the taste of the vinaigrette and ingredients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes in pasta and fresh ingredients.
- Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or olive oil to a pan over low heat, stirring gently until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette that might help you create the perfect dish.
Can I make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is great prepared in advance! Just store it in the fridge and enjoy within three days.
What can I add for extra protein?
You can incorporate grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost without altering the salad’s appeal.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It keeps well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping during the week.
Can I substitute other nuts in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to replace walnuts with pecans or almonds based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
The Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not only vibrant and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. Try it today for a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a colorful and delicious dish that brings together creamy feta, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, all coated in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light meal at home, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also impressively versatile. Serve it as a refreshing main or a delightful side—either way, it’s sure to elevate your dining experience. Packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach and whole grains, this pasta salad is as wholesome as it is flavorful. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Dressing: extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Combine cooled pasta with feta, cranberries, walnuts, spinach, and red onion in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for enhanced flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
