Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any gathering or meal. With tender penne pasta, tangy feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, this salad stands out with its zesty orange vinaigrette. It’s not only quick to prepare but also light yet satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a refreshing side dish or a hearty main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination – The blend of tangy feta and sweet cranberries creates a delicious contrast that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish – Serve it as a side or enjoy it as a main course; it’s suitable for any occasion!
• Nutritious Ingredients – Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from the spinach and walnuts, this salad is both tasty and nutritious.
• Easy to Customize – Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins for added flavor and nutrition!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, gather some essential tools that will help streamline the process. Having the right equipment on hand makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Large mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta without losing any precious noodles.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing the orange vinaigrette quickly.
• Whisk: Ensures all ingredients for the vinaigrette are blended smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 oz penne pasta

For the Salad

• 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 to cool it down. 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

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
2. Cooked penne
3. Crumbled feta cheese
4. Dried cranberries
5. Chopped 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 or refrigerate for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully before serving.

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

As a Main Course

• A complete meal: Pair this salad with protein like grilled chicken or turkey for a satisfying main dish.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some roasted bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect pairing: Serve alongside grilled meats or fish to complement the zesty vinaigrette.
• Potluck favorite: This salad is an excellent choice for potlucks, bringing color and flavor to the table.

For Meal Prep

• Make ahead: Prepare the salad in advance and store it in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Portion control: Divide into individual containers for grab-and-go meals, ensuring freshness by adding dressing just before eating.

How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

To elevate your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that every bite is bursting with flavor.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh baby spinach and ripe oranges enhance the taste significantly compared to their older counterparts.
• Toast your walnuts – Toasting adds a rich flavor and crunch. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
• Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter salad, increase the honey slightly for more balance against the tangy feta.
• Chill before serving – Allowing the salad to chill for 15 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully together.
• Experiment with cheese – Try using goat cheese as an alternative for a different flavor profile while still keeping it creamy.
• Add herbs – Fresh herbs like basil or mint can give your salad an aromatic lift and make it even more refreshing.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection add protein and texture to your meal.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides great depth of flavor.
3. Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover vinaigrette on your plate.
4. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs brings additional nutrients while maintaining a light profile.
5. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic reduction offer a delightful contrast.
6. Cucumber Mint Yogurt Dip – This cool dip pairs well as a refreshing contrast to the tangy salad, perfect for dipping pita chips.

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:

• Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking the penne too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions for al dente pasta.
• Using Old Ingredients – Freshness matters! Check your feta cheese and spinach for quality before using them to ensure vibrant flavors.
• Skipping the Dressing – Don’t forget to whisk the orange vinaigrette well. This ensures all ingredients are evenly coated and flavorful.
• Neglecting Seasoning – A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate your dish. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your preference.
• Chilling Too Long – While letting the salad rest enhances flavors, refrigerating it for too long can make the ingredients soggy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to keep ingredients fresh.

Freezing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• • Duration: Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture and flavor.
• • Note: Fresh ingredients like spinach do not freeze well.

Reheating Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I customize Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette?

You can definitely customize this salad! Add grilled chicken or substitute nuts based on your preference.

How do I make the dressing for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette?

Simply whisk together orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

How long does Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette last?

This salad lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese alternative that crumbles well.

Final Thoughts

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that combines freshness and flavor. It’s perfect as a side or a light main course. Feel free to customize it by adding grilled protein or different nuts for added crunch. Enjoy experimenting!