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 tender penne pasta, tangy feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy toasted walnuts tossed in a zesty homemade orange vinaigrette, this salad stands out for its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation. It’s a light yet satisfying option that can be served as a side or enjoyed as a main dish. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of tangy feta and sweet cranberries creates a delightful contrast that excites the palate.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish at picnics, barbecues, or potlucks.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from spinach and healthy fats from walnuts, this salad is as good for you as it is tasty.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make this salad uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl ensures easy mixing of all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the vinaigrette components smoothly for an even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Base

• 8 oz penne pasta

For the Salad Mix

• 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 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. Ensure all ingredients are 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 mixture.
2. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

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

Now you’ve created a delicious Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette that’s sure to impress!

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 various ways to enhance your meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual lunch, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

As a Main Course

• Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for a protein-packed meal that satisfies any appetite.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside roasted vegetables or grilled fish. The salad’s tangy flavor complements these dishes beautifully.

With Fresh Bread

• Enjoy with warm crusty bread or pita. It’s perfect for scooping up the salad.

Chilled as a Picnic Salad

• Pack it in a container for a refreshing picnic option. The flavors meld wonderfully when chilled.

Topped with Extra Nuts

• Sprinkle additional toasted walnuts on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

To ensure your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad shines, follow these simple tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh baby spinach and high-quality feta make all the difference in taste.
• Adjust sweetness – Modify the honey in the vinaigrette based on your preference for sweetness.
• Let it chill – Refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Add protein – Incorporate grilled chicken or turkey if you want a heartier meal.
• Experiment with nuts – Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.
• Customize the dressing – Feel free to add herbs like basil or mint to the vinaigrette for added freshness.

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

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

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken marinated in herbs enhances the salad’s flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection bring warmth and richness.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad adds extra protein and fiber while keeping it fresh.
4. Caprese Salad – Slices of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
5. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the salad.
6. Hummus and Veggies – A platter of vibrant vegetables paired with hummus makes for a healthy snack option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the rinsing step – Not rinsing the pasta after cooking can lead to a sticky texture. Always rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and separate the noodles.
• Using stale ingredients – Old or stale dried cranberries or nuts can ruin your salad’s flavor. Check your pantry and use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Overdressing the salad – Adding too much vinaigrette can overpower the dish. Start with a small amount, toss, and add more if necessary.
• Not letting flavors meld – Serving immediately might miss out on flavor depth. Letting it sit for 15 minutes allows the ingredients to combine beautifully.
• Ignoring portion sizes – Not measuring out your ingredients can lead to imbalances in flavors. Stick to the recipe for perfect harmony in every bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if you plan on storing leftovers.

Freezing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as it may alter the texture of the ingredients.

Reheating Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover salad with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Place salad in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad a few hours before serving. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you want a different flavor profile, consider using goat cheese or a vegan feta alternative for a different twist.

How long does Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add other ingredients to this salad?

Absolutely! You can customize it by adding grilled chicken, bell peppers, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish or a main meal, this salad will impress everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!