Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful, refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients make it an excellent choice for picnics, potlucks, or even as a light lunch at home. The combination of tender penne pasta, tangy feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts tossed in a zesty orange vinaigrette creates a salad that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: With the tangy feta and sweet cranberries, every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side with grilled meats or enjoy it as a hearty main dish.
• Nutritious Components: Packed with vitamins from spinach and healthy fats from walnuts, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or substitute nuts based on your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Large mixing bowl
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without sticking or clumping.
• Colander: Perfect for draining pasta while keeping it intact and ready for mixing.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth and well-emulsified vinaigrette by combining ingredients effectively.

Ingredients

For the Pasta 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

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Orange Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
2. Fresh orange juice
3. Olive oil
4. Honey
5. Dijon mustard
6. Salt

7. Black pepper

8. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
2. Cooked penne pasta
3. Crumbled feta cheese
4. Dried cranberries
5. Chopped walnuts
6. Baby spinach
7. Thinly sliced red onion

Step 4: Dress & Toss

1. Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the salad mixture.
2. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Serve immediately for freshness or refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Enjoy this easy-to-make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette at your next meal!

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• A hearty option for lunch or dinner, this salad shines on its own. Pair it with crusty bread for a filling meal.

As a Side Salad

• This salad complements grilled chicken or beef wonderfully. Serve it alongside your protein of choice for a balanced plate.

At Picnics and Potlucks

• Perfect for sharing, this dish is easy to transport and will impress guests with its vibrant colors and flavors.

For Meal Prep

• Make this salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It holds up well, making it ideal for quick lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

To make your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad even better, keep these tips in mind. They will enhance the flavors and textures of this delightful dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh baby spinach and high-quality feta cheese make all the difference in taste.
• Toast Your Walnuts – Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
• Adjust the Sweetness – Depending on your preference, feel free to add more or less honey to balance the vinaigrette.
• Customize with Vegetables – Add ingredients like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for extra freshness.
• Chill Before Serving – Letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 15 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Dressings – Feel free to swap the orange vinaigrette with other dressings like balsamic or lemon if you prefer.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Breasts – Seasoned simply and grilled to perfection, they provide a protein boost.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add color and flavor.
3. Quinoa Stuffed Peppers – These colorful stuffed peppers make a filling addition full of nutrients.
4. Garlic Bread – A warm, buttery garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser alongside any salad.
5. Cucumber Tomato Salad – A refreshing mix that echoes similar flavors found in the penne salad.
6. Hummus and Veggie Platter – A healthy, crunchy appetizer that pairs well before serving the main dish.
7. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate while complementing the sweetness of cranberries.
8. Chickpea Salad – Packed with protein, this dish is both hearty and flavorful, enhancing your meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the rinsing step – Not rinsing the pasta after cooking can lead to clumping. Always rinse your penne under cold water to keep it separate.
• Using stale ingredients – Old or stale feta cheese and nuts can ruin the flavor. Make sure all ingredients are fresh for a vibrant taste.
• Ignoring seasoning – Under-seasoning can make your salad bland. Don’t skip the salt and pepper; they enhance the overall flavor.
• Overdressing the salad – Applying too much vinaigrette can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Not letting it chill – Serving immediately might miss some flavor depth. Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving for better taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of feta and pasta after thawing.
• If you must freeze, do so without dressing and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or farfalle.

How can I customize my Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?

Feel free to add other ingredients like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or your favorite veggies for added nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad keeps well in the fridge and makes a great meal prep option for lunch or dinner.

What can I serve this salad with?

Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side dish.

Final Thoughts

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding proteins or different vegetables. Try this refreshing dish at your next gathering and enjoy its vibrant flavors!