Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, it brings together tender penne pasta, tangy feta cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. The zesty orange vinaigrette ties everything together, making each bite refreshing and satisfying. With just 20 minutes of preparation, this dish is both quick and easy to whip up for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of feta, cranberries, and orange creates a deliciously vibrant taste.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a hearty main or a flavorful side—ideal for any meal!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and wholesome ingredients that promote healthy eating.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or greens to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To create this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the process and ensure your salad turns out perfect every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly until al dente.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta efficiently while preventing overcooking.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the vinaigrette smoothly.

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

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.

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. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

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

Step 4: Dress & Toss

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

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Serve immediately for best flavor.
2. Alternatively, refrigerate for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Enjoy this vibrant Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette at your next gathering!

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a casual dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve this salad on its own for a refreshing lunch option. It’s filling yet light, making it perfect for midday meals.

Paired with Grilled Chicken

• Add grilled chicken slices for extra protein. The flavors of the chicken complement the tangy feta and sweet cranberries beautifully.

As a Picnic Dish

• Pack the salad in a portable container for picnics. Its vibrant colors and delicious taste make it an appealing choice outdoors.

With a Side of Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread. The crunchy texture of the bread contrasts nicely with the creamy feta and soft pasta.

On a Bed of Mixed Greens

• For an elegant presentation, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens. This adds freshness and enhances the overall visual appeal.

How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Enhancing your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is easy with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish further.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and high-quality feta cheese to enhance flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer your vinaigrette sweeter, add more honey according to your taste.
• Add More Crunch: Incorporate additional nuts like pecans or almonds for added texture.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try substituting feta with goat cheese for a different creamy flavor profile.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an aromatic finish.

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

Complementing your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms add a smoky flavor that pairs well.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa dish cooked with herbs provides additional protein and fiber.
3. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices offer a healthy snack-like side.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic reduction balance out the flavors.
5. Cucumber Yogurt Dip: A cool cucumber dip made from yogurt serves as a refreshing accompaniment.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices create a hearty side that complements the salad nicely.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries provide sweetness and crunch that works well together.
8. Hummus Platter: A platter of hummus served with pita chips and veggies makes for a great starter or side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Skipping the Rinsing – Not rinsing cooked pasta can lead to a sticky texture. Always rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping.
• Overdressing the Salad – Adding too much vinaigrette can drown the flavors. Start with a little, toss gently, and add more as needed for balance.
• Using Old Ingredients – Freshness matters! Ensure your feta cheese and vegetables are fresh to enhance flavor and overall appeal.
• Ignoring Texture – A good salad has varied textures. Make sure to include crunchy elements like walnuts or crispy greens alongside softer ingredients.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad 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 necessary, freeze components separately (like pasta and vinaigrette) for better results.

Reheating Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using goat cheese or a dairy-free feta option available at most stores for similar flavor profiles.

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

Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers, or even proteins such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for added heartiness.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

Besides orange vinaigrette, balsamic vinaigrette or lemon olive oil dressing can also complement the flavors nicely.

Final Thoughts

The Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or protein options. Enjoy this refreshing dish on its own or as a delightful side!