Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with textures and tastes. The combination of creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and zesty orange vinaigrette makes it a standout on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make – With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavorful Combination – The tangy feta cheese and sweet cranberries create a perfect balance that delights your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish – Enjoy it as a side dish or a light main course; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Nutritious Ingredients – Packed with fresh spinach and whole grains, this salad is both healthy and satisfying.
• Beautiful Presentation – The colorful ingredients make for an attractive dish that will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference when preparing your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – This is essential for boiling the pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks correctly.
• Colander – A must-have for draining the pasta after cooking without losing any bits.
• Mixing bowl – Ideal for combining all your delicious ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk – Necessary for mixing the vinaigrette smoothly, ensuring all flavors blend well.

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Ingredients

For the Salad

• 8 oz penne pasta
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
• 2 cups baby spinach
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Orange Vinaigrette

• ¼ cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
– Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente.
– Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Orange Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together:
– Fresh orange juice,
– Olive oil,
– Honey,
– Dijon mustard,
– Salt,
– Black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
– Cooked pasta,
– Crumbled feta,
– Dried cranberries,
– Toasted walnuts,
– Baby spinach,
– Thinly sliced red onion.

Step 4: Dress & Toss

Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the salad.
– Toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy your refreshing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette!

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick lunch, here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing midday meal.
• Pair it with whole grain bread for added fiber.

As a Side Dish

• This salad complements grilled chicken or turkey perfectly.
• It adds color and flavor to any barbecue spread.

At Potlucks or Picnics

• Pack it in a portable container for easy transport.
• It holds well at room temperature, making it ideal for outdoor events.

With Extra Protein

• Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier option.
• Toss in chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.

How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

To ensure your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad shines at every meal, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baby spinach and high-quality feta enhance the salad’s flavor and texture.
• Customize your nuts: Swap walnuts with pecans or almonds based on your preference for different tastes and crunch.
• Let it chill: Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify the honey amount based on your taste. A little more can enhance the vinaigrette’s balance.
• Experiment with add-ins: Try adding sliced apples or pears for an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle toss before serving again.

Best Side Dishes for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Pairing side dishes with your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Grilled Lemon Chicken – Juicy chicken marinated in lemon juice complements the tangy salad beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add depth and color to your meal.
3. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs offers a nutritious side that pairs well with pasta salad.
4. Garlic Breadsticks – Warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter bring a comforting touch to the table.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with rice and vegetables provide a hearty yet healthy side option.
6. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers make for an easy-to-eat appetizer that complements the salad nicely.
7. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed lightly in vinegar balances out the rich flavors of the penne salad.
8. Hummus Platter – A variety of hummus served with pita chips and veggies makes for a delightful snack alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish.

• Ignoring the Pasta Cooking Time – Overcooked pasta can ruin the salad’s texture. Always follow the package instructions and taste for doneness.
• Using Non-Fresh Ingredients – Stale nuts or expired cheese can impact flavor. Check your ingredients’ freshness before starting the recipe for the best results.
• Skipping Rinsing the Pasta – Not rinsing can lead to sticky pasta. Always rinse cooked penne under cold water to stop cooking and improve texture.
• Overdressing the Salad – Too much vinaigrette can make it soggy. Start with a little dressing and add more gradually until it’s just right.
• Not Letting Flavors Meld – Serving immediately may miss flavor depth. Consider refrigerating for 15 minutes before serving to enhance taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Freezing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• Duration: Best if frozen for no longer than 1 month.
• Container: Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette.

Can I substitute feta cheese?

Yes, you can use goat cheese or vegan cheese alternatives if you prefer.

How can I customize my Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette?

Feel free to add grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or different nuts like almonds or pecans for varied textures and flavors.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad stores well and keeps its flavor when prepared in advance.

What type of pasta works best?

While penne is ideal, you can also use rotini or bowtie pasta based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that balances flavors and textures beautifully. It’s versatile enough to serve as a side or a main course, perfect for gatherings or quick lunches. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!