Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that bursts with flavor and is incredibly easy to whip up, then this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is perfect for you! This salad has quickly become a favorite in my home because it combines creamy feta cheese, sweet cranberries, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette into one vibrant bowl. It’s not just a pretty dish; it’s also refreshing and satisfying, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Whether you’re preparing for a potluck, hosting friends, or just want to enjoy something light yet filling, this rigatoni salad fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use pantry staples while bringing a splash of color to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days when you need something delicious fast.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors—creamy feta mixed with sweet cranberries is always a hit!
• Make-Ahead Delight: Prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge. It tastes even better after chilling!
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side at barbecues and picnics; it’s suitable for any occasion.
• Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with good-for-you ingredients, this salad provides a lovely balance of nutrients without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple and wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You probably have most of them in your kitchen already. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Salad

• 2 cups rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Mix Up the Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or even mozzarella if you prefer something milder.
• Incorporate Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of freshness.
• Change the Pasta Shape: While rigatoni works wonderfully, any pasta shape you love will work just as well!

How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove. Adding salt enhances the flavor of the pasta. Once boiling, add your rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—typically around 10 to 12 minutes. This ensures your pasta has that perfect chewy bite!

Step 2: Cool Down the Pasta

Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This step stops the cooking process and cools down the pasta quickly. Let it drain completely before moving on.

Step 3: Prepare Your Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled rigatoni with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Each ingredient adds its unique flair to this salad!

Step 4: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This dressing brings everything together beautifully with its zesty kick.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour that lovely lemon vinaigrette over your pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated. Taste your creation—this is your moment to adjust seasoning if needed!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

You can serve this salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow those flavors to meld beautifully. Either way, dig in and enjoy every bite of your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette!

Pro Tips for Making Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Creating the perfect Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish and ensure it’s bursting with flavor.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh parsley and quality feta make a big difference in taste. The freshness enhances the overall flavor profile, making your salad even more vibrant.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This step ensures that each bite is infused with the zesty lemon vinaigrette and the sweetness of the cranberries.
• Customize your add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like toasted nuts or diced cucumbers. These additions can introduce new textures and flavors, making your salad uniquely yours!
• Adjust the dressing: If you prefer a tangier taste, add a splash more lemon juice or a pinch of zest. Tinkering with the dressing can help you achieve your desired flavor balance.
• Make-ahead option: This salad stores well and can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. It makes for an easy meal prep option, perfect for busy weekdays!

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Serving this delightful rigatoni salad is just as fun as making it! With its colorful presentation and delicious flavors, there are several ways to showcase this dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or almonds on top for an extra crunch that complements the creamy feta beautifully.
• Lemon wedges: Adding a couple of lemon wedges on the side not only enhances visual appeal but also offers an optional extra squeeze of citrus for those who love a zesty kick.
• Microgreens: A handful of microgreens adds a touch of elegance and freshness, elevating the overall presentation of your salad.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal grilled veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus pairs perfectly with this salad’s flavors while adding nutrition and color.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs serves as a nutritious side that complements the rigatoni without overpowering its delicate flavors.
• Roasted Chickpeas: Crispy roasted chickpeas provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture of the salad, making for an enjoyable bite every time.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar keeps things fresh and light while balancing out the richness of the feta cheese.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and whip up this delightful Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge, making it a delightful option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• If you notice the pasta absorbing too much dressing, feel free to drizzle a little olive oil and lemon juice before serving again.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the ingredients’ texture changes upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh!

Reheating

• If you prefer your salad slightly warm, gently toss it in a pan over low heat just until warmed through.
• Avoid overheating to preserve the delicate flavors of feta and cranberries.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

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

Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or a plant-based feta alternative. Both will provide a great flavor while keeping the dish light and refreshing.

How do I add more protein to my Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

You can easily add cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken (if desired) to boost protein content without compromising on taste.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

While this recipe contains feta cheese, you can easily make it vegan by substituting the feta with a plant-based alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it a wonderful choice for any occasion. Enjoy making it as much as sharing it with friends and family. Happy cooking!