Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor and is perfect for any occasion, then you’ll love my Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. This salad is a delightful blend of savory feta cheese, sweet cranberries, and fresh veggies, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s one of those recipes that always gets rave reviews at family gatherings or summer picnics.

What makes this salad truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, bringing it to a potluck, or serving it at a barbecue, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have this delicious salad ready in no time.
• Crowd-pleaser: The combination of flavors is sure to satisfy everyone at the table, even picky eaters!
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge for an even tastier meal.
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, it’s not just tasty but healthy too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be happy to know that making this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette requires simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you need:

For the Salad

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup cucumber, diced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Lemon Vinaigrette

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with some variations based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Change up the greens: Mix in some spinach or arugula for added freshness.
• Switch the cheese: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
• Experiment with fruits: Substitute dried cranberries with raisins or chopped apples for a fun twist.

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. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—this usually takes about 10 minutes. Draining and rinsing the pasta with cold water helps cool it down quickly so that your salad stays fresh and crisp.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until everything is emulsified and smooth. This zesty dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni with crumbled feta, dried cranberries, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle your homemade lemon vinaigrette over the top and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a bright touch before serving. You can serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This waiting period allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

And there you have it! A delightful Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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

Creating a delicious pasta salad is all about the little details that enhance the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to elevate your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes whenever possible. Fresh produce adds a vibrant crunch and enhances the overall taste of the salad.

• Don’t Skip the Chilling: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. This makes each bite more flavorful and refreshing.

• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The addition of honey is optional, but it can balance out the tanginess of the feta and lemon. Taste as you go to find your perfect level of sweetness.

• Mix Up Your Pasta Shape: While rigatoni is a fantastic choice, feel free to experiment with other shapes like penne or fusilli. Different textures can change your dining experience in delightful ways.

• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy them within a few days for optimal freshness, but note that the pasta may absorb some dressing over time.

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This colorful salad not only tastes amazing but also makes for an eye-catching dish on any table. Here are some creative ways to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or almonds on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Extra Herbs: Fresh basil or mint can add a lovely aromatic touch, enhancing the freshness of the dish.
• Zest It Up: A sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus make a great complement, adding smoky flavors that pair well with this salad.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: A side of creamy hummus with crispy pita chips offers a satisfying crunch and balances out the salad’s tanginess.
• Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl: This hearty bowl packed with quinoa, olives, and roasted vegetables brings another layer of Mediterranean flavor to your meal.
• Crisp Green Salad: A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of feta and cranberries.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve this tasty dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you notice the pasta absorbs too much dressing, consider adding a little more lemon vinaigrette before serving again.

Freezing

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta salad if necessary.
• Place the salad in a freezer-safe container, but be aware that some ingredients may change texture after thawing (especially the cucumber and tomatoes).
• Freeze for up to 1 month. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight.

Reheating

• Since this is a cold salad, you don’t need to reheat it.
• If you’d prefer your pasta warm, gently heat it on the stove over low heat, just until warmed through, then mix in additional vinaigrette.

FAQs

Here are some answers to common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different pasta for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

Absolutely! While rigatoni gives a nice texture, any pasta shape you prefer will work well. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

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

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep an eye on freshness and adjust as necessary!

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan-friendly, simply substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative and omit any honey from the vinaigrette.

What else can I add to this salad?

Feel free to customize your salad! Ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or grilled chicken can enhance flavor and texture while keeping it nutritious.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette as much as I do! Its bright flavors and vibrant colors make it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re prepping for lunch or bringing a dish to share at gatherings, this salad is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients!