Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a refreshing, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion! With its delightful combination of tender penne pasta, tangy feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy toasted walnuts, this salad offers a burst of flavors. The homemade orange vinaigrette adds a zesty touch that elevates the taste profile. Whether you need a side dish for a gathering or a hearty main course for lunch, this salad fits the bill. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – This salad takes only 20 minutes to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion – The combination of feta, cranberries, and the zesty orange vinaigrette creates a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors.
• Versatile Dish – Enjoy it as a light meal on its own or pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for a more filling option.
• Healthy Ingredients – Packed with fresh spinach and nuts, this salad is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s summer picnics or holiday dinners, this salad is sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot – Essential for boiling the penne pasta to the perfect al dente texture.
• Colander – Helps drain the pasta quickly without hassle after cooking.
• Whisk – Useful for combining ingredients effectively when making the orange vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Pasta and Greens

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach

Cheese and Fruits

• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ½ cup dried cranberries

Nuts and Onions

• ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

Vinaigrette Ingredients

• 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 mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
2. Fresh orange juice
3. Olive oil
4. Honey
5. Dijon mustard
6. Salt
7. Black pepper
8. Whisk together until 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. Toasted walnuts
6. Baby spinach
7. Thinly sliced red onion

Step 4: Dress & Toss

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

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Serve immediately as a refreshing dish or refrigerate for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or looking for a quick lunch, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

As a Main Dish

• This salad makes a filling meal on its own, especially when topped with grilled chicken or turkey.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with your favorite protein, like baked chicken or beef, to add balance to your meal.

Picnic-Friendly Option

• Pack it for picnics or potlucks; it travels well and tastes great even after a few hours.

Meal Prep Delight

• Prepare it in advance for easy lunches throughout the week. Store it in an airtight container for freshness.

Garnish Ideas

• Add some extra toppings like fresh herbs or additional nuts for added flavor and crunch.

How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Perfecting this salad involves simple tweaks that enhance its flavors and textures. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh spinach and quality feta cheese will dramatically improve the taste and texture of your salad.
• Customize the Dressing – Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your preference.
• Chill Before Serving – Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving; this helps meld the flavors.
• Add Proteins – For extra nutrition, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey to make this dish more filling.
• Experiment with Nuts – Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if you prefer different nut flavors.
• Season to Taste – Always taste before serving; feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your liking.

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

To complement your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, consider these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated and grilled skewers add a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the salad.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provides a tasty contrast to the salad’s freshness.
3. Quinoa Pilaf – Flavored with herbs and spices, quinoa adds an extra layer of nutrition while keeping the meal light.
4. Garlic Bread – Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover vinaigrette from your plate.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with grains and cheese make a hearty complement to the salad.
6. Chickpea Salad – A refreshing chickpea salad adds protein and fiber, making it an ideal pairing.
7. Cucumber Raita – This cool yogurt-based dip balances out the tanginess of the vinaigrette beautifully.
8. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers create an appealing visual alongside your pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Rinsing – Failing to rinse the cooked penne pasta can lead to clumping. Always rinse under cold water to keep the pasta separate and fresh.
• Using Old Ingredients – Stale feta or expired cranberries can ruin the dish’s flavor. Always check your ingredients before starting.
• Overdressing – Adding too much vinaigrette can make the salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed for flavor.
• Neglecting Texture – Forgetting to toast walnuts can result in a less crunchy salad. Toast them lightly for enhanced flavor and crunch.
• Ignoring Seasoning – Not seasoning the vinaigrette properly can make it bland. Taste as you mix, adjusting salt and pepper for perfect balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• • Container: Use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid.

Freezing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• • Duration: This salad is best eaten fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• • Container: Use a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad covered for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different pasta shapes?

You can substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle, while keeping the cooking time in mind.

Is there a vegan alternative for feta cheese?

Yes! You can use plant-based feta alternatives made from nuts or tofu to create a vegan version of this salad.

How do I customize my Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?

Feel free to add other ingredients like grilled chicken, bell peppers, or chickpeas for added protein and flavor.

What can I serve with Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a buffet spread during gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for any meal. With options to customize ingredients based on your preferences, it makes a delightful addition to your recipe collection. Try it today!