Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a dish that brings joy and flavor to your table, you’ve come to the right place! This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is one of my all-time favorites. It’s vibrant, refreshing, and packed with personality, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of creamy feta and tangy cranberries creates a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

This salad not only tastes amazing but also comes together quickly. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch or serving it at a potluck, it’s sure to impress your friends and family. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this flavorful salad in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: The balance of creamy feta and sweet cranberries makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: This salad gets even better after sitting in the fridge for a bit, so it’s perfect for meal prep.
• Fresh and vibrant flavors: The zesty lemon vinaigrette brightens up the dish, making every bite refreshing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In this section, you’ll find all the wholesome ingredients needed to create your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. They are simple and easy to find at your local grocery store!

• 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
• 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

What I love about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of texture.
• Make it hearty: Include some grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
• Switch up the greens: Replace parsley with other fresh herbs like basil or mint for a different flavor twist.
• Add freshness: Throw in some chopped cucumber or halved cherry tomatoes for extra color and 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. Once boiling, add the rigatoni pasta. Cooking it until al dente (usually around 10 to 12 minutes) is essential because it ensures that the pasta holds its shape while absorbing all those delicious flavors later.

Step 2: Drain and Rinse

Once the pasta is cooked to perfection, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water. This quick rinse stops the cooking process and helps keep the pasta from becoming mushy. Let it drain completely before moving on.

Step 3: Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained rigatoni with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Each ingredient adds its unique flavor profile that contributes to the overall deliciousness of 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 fully combined. This dressing is where all that zesty goodness comes from! It not only ties everything together but also enhances each ingredient’s natural flavors.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with dressing. Take a moment here to appreciate how beautiful your salad looks!

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Give your salad a taste test! If needed, adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper according to your preferences. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes so those wonderful flavors can meld together even more.

Enjoy your refreshing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! It’s sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection!

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

Creating a delicious and vibrant salad is all about the details, so here are some pro tips to ensure your dish shines!

• Choose al dente pasta: Cooking the rigatoni just until it’s al dente prevents it from becoming mushy and helps it hold its shape, ensuring each bite has the perfect texture.
• Opt for fresh herbs: Using fresh parsley instead of dried elevates the flavor profile and adds a burst of freshness that complements the feta and cranberries beautifully.
• Customize your ingredients: Feel free to add in vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and nutrition; this can make your salad even more colorful and appealing.
• Make it ahead of time: Preparing the salad a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more cohesive taste. Just remember to toss it again before serving!
• Adjust the dressing: If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can mix in a dollop of Greek yogurt or substitute some olive oil with creamy tahini for an interesting twist.

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Presenting your feta and cranberry rigatoni salad beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped walnuts: Sprinkling chopped walnuts over your salad adds a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that beautifully contrasts with the creamy feta.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest before serving brightens up the dish visually and adds an extra citrusy aroma that tantalizes the senses.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes lightly brushed with olive oil make for a vibrant side that complements the flavors in your salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs and spices adds protein and is a great option for those looking for something heartier alongside their salad.
• Hummus Platter: Serve with an assortment of fresh vegetables, pita bread, or crackers. The creamy hummus pairs wonderfully with the salad’s tangy flavors while keeping things light.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast to the savory elements of your rigatoni salad, making it an ideal palate cleanser.

Enjoy crafting this colorful dish, whether it’s for lunch or as part of a dinner gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weekdays or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The salad will keep well for up to 3 days.
• If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, feel free to add a splash of olive oil and lemon juice before serving.

Freezing

• It’s best to avoid freezing this salad as the texture of the feta and pasta may change upon thawing.
• However, if you must freeze it, consider omitting the dressing before freezing.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

• This salad is best served cold or at room temperature; there’s no need to reheat.
• If you prefer it warm, you can gently warm the pasta separately and then mix in the other ingredients just before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish!

Can I make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette without feta cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute feta with a plant-based cheese or even avocado for creaminess while still keeping that delicious flavor profile.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep!

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried in this salad?

Fresh cranberries could be quite tart; however, if you enjoy that flavor, feel free to experiment. Just be mindful they might alter the overall sweetness of the dish.

What other ingredients can I add to my Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad?

Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color!

Is this salad suitable for potlucks?

Yes! This rigatoni salad is a crowd-pleaser and travels well, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or picnics.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brighten your day. Whether you’re prepping for lunch or sharing it with friends at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!