Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious, then this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is just the thing! I absolutely adore this recipe because it combines creamy feta and tangy cranberries, all brought together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying or for family gatherings where everyone will appreciate a fresh, flavorful salad.

This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. Whether you serve it as a light lunch or as a side at your next potluck, it’s sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• Flavorful Combination: The creamy feta and sweet cranberries create a mouthwatering mix that everyone will love.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this salad ahead of time; just let it chill in the fridge to let the flavors meld.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients, this salad is both light and nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette shine. You likely have most of these in your kitchen already!

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 Lemon Vinaigrette

• 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 parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for.

• Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture.
• Make it more filling: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn it into a hearty meal.
• Mix up the herbs: Swap out parsley with fresh basil or mint for a different flavor profile.
• Change the cheese: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier taste.

How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10 to 12 minutes. Cooking it just right ensures that your pasta has that perfect chewy texture!

Step 2: Drain and Rinse

Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water. This step stops the cooking process and cools down the pasta so you can mix everything without wilting other ingredients.

Step 3: Prepare Your Ingredients

While waiting for your pasta, crumble the feta cheese into small pieces. Then measure out your dried cranberries and finely chop your red onion. Set these aside because they will add wonderful flavor and texture to your salad.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni with crumbled feta, dried cranberries, red onion, and chopped parsley. The colors alone are enough to brighten anyone’s day!

Step 5: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until fully combined. This dressing brings everything together beautifully – brightening up every bite!

Step 6: Dress Your Salad

Pour the lemon vinaigrette over your pasta mixture. Toss everything together gently until every ingredient is coated with that delicious dressing. Taste your salad; if needed, adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper.

Step 7: Serve or Chill

You can serve this salad immediately while it’s fresh. However, letting it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows all those flavors to meld even better! Enjoy every bite of your delightful Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette!

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

Creating a delicious rigatoni salad is all about the details, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavors of your salad. Opt for vibrant parsley and crisp red onion to make your dish pop.
• Let it Chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This makes each bite more enjoyable and flavorful.
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the lemon vinaigrette! Depending on your preference, you can add more honey for sweetness or more lemon juice for tang.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition. They complement the creamy feta wonderfully!
• Serve it Cold: This salad is best served cold, making it a perfect make-ahead option. It’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep throughout the week.

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Serving this delightful rigatoni salad can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present your dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of chopped pistachios or almonds adds a nice crunch and enhances texture.
• Extra feta crumbles: Additional feta on top gives an appealing look and intensifies that creamy flavor.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make a colorful side that complements the pasta’s flavor.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs perfectly with this pasta dish for a satisfying meal.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh green salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon balances the richness of the rigatoni salad while adding extra nutrients.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This light quinoa dish cooked with vegetable broth and herbs adds a nutty flavor that works well alongside your pasta creation.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you notice the pasta soaking up too much dressing, consider adding a little extra olive oil and lemon juice before serving.

Freezing

• While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, if you must freeze it, do so without the dressing.
• Place the cooled salad in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Use within 1 month for optimal freshness. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer to eat it warm, gently reheat the pasta in a microwave or on the stove over low heat.
• Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice to refresh flavors when warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

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

Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy its flavors as they meld together.

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 seasoned with salt and lemon juice. For a different flavor, consider using goat cheese or a creamy plant-based cheese alternative.

How long does Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad last in the fridge?

This delicious salad will stay fresh in your fridge for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add other vegetables to Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or even spinach for added crunch and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! It’s not only vibrant and flavorful but also adaptable for your taste. Whether it’s for a picnic, lunch at work, or a dinner gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy cooking!