Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors! Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side for dinner, this dish combines creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts in a delightful lemon dressing. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Pasta and Greens
• Cheese and Nuts
• Fruits and Vegetables
• Vinaigrette Ingredients
• How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette
• Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
• Step 4: Dress the Salad
• Step 5: Serve or Chill
• How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• As a Main Dish
• As a Side Dish
• For Meal Prep
• At Potlucks or Gatherings
• How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Best Side Dishes for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Reheating Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette ahead of time?
• What can I substitute for feta cheese?
• How do I customize my Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What are some great pairings for this salad?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This salad can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavor explosion: The combination of tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and zesty lemon vinaigrette offers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile dish: Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this salad fits perfectly into any meal or occasion.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like spinach and walnuts, this salad is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for a quick meal later on.

Tools and Preparation

Creating this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette requires just a few essential tools that make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Whisk
• Large mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A large pot ensures that the rigatoni cooks evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Using a colander helps drain the pasta quickly while keeping it perfectly al dente.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for emulsifying the lemon vinaigrette to achieve a smooth texture.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

Pasta and Greens

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach

Cheese and Nuts

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped

Fruits and Vegetables

• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

Vinaigrette 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 Pasta

1. Boil water in a large pot. Add salt for flavor.
2. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta using a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
2. Extra virgin olive oil
3. Fresh lemon juice
4. Honey
5. Dijon mustard
6. Salt and black pepper

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
2. Cooked rigatoni
3. Crumbled feta
4. Dried cranberries
5. Toasted walnuts
6. Baby spinach
7. Sliced red onion

Step 4: Dress the Salad

1. Drizzle the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad mixture.
2. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve or Chill

• Serve immediately for a fresh taste or chill for 15 minutes to enhance flavors before serving.

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette offers both nutrition and taste in each bite! Enjoy!

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be served in various ways to suit different occasions and preferences.

As a Main Dish

• Ideal for lunch or dinner, this pasta salad can stand alone as a light meal.
• Pair with a glass of chilled white wine for an elegant touch.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish to complement the flavors.
• A perfect addition to barbecue spreads or picnic baskets.

For Meal Prep

• Divide into individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
• This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it great for meal planning.

At Potlucks or Gatherings

• Bring this dish to share at potlucks; it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Garnish with extra feta and cranberries before serving for visual appeal.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

To elevate your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh feta cheese and high-quality olive oil to enhance flavors.
• Adjust Sweetness: Tailor the honey in the vinaigrette to your taste—more for sweetness, less for tanginess.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate chopped basil or parsley for an extra flavor dimension.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if you prefer a different crunch.
• Include Seasonal Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Pairing sides with your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and flavor that complements the salad perfectly.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit and provides a satisfying crunch alongside the salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies brings warmth and earthiness to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes and mozzarella pairs beautifully with the tangy rigatoni salad.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf adds texture and is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice or grains, providing an additional hearty element to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Rinse: Failing to rinse rigatoni after cooking can lead to gummy pasta. Always rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much vinaigrette can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
• Not Toasting Walnuts: Neglecting to toast walnuts means missing out on their full flavor. Toast them in a dry pan for a few minutes until golden brown for added crunch.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season can result in bland flavors. Don’t skip salt and pepper in your dressing and salad mixture to enhance overall taste.
• Using Stale Ingredients: Old feta or cranberries can ruin your dish. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

• Freezing is not recommended as it changes texture, especially the feta cheese.
• If you must freeze, separate the components (pasta and dressing) before freezing.

Reheating Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between each, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it properly in the refrigerator and add the vinaigrette right before serving for best results.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives, goat cheese or ricotta salata can provide similar creaminess and flavor if you prefer something different.

How do I customize my Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

Feel free to add ingredients like grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or different nuts. Customize it based on your taste preferences!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge and can be portioned out easily.

What are some great pairings for this salad?

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish, making it a versatile option for summer barbecues or picnics.

Final Thoughts

The Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a light meal or serve it alongside your favorite proteins. With options to customize based on what you have on hand, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try!