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Looking for a refreshing and flavorful pasta salad? This Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is the perfect combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. With creamy feta cheese, tart dried cranberries, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this dish is a great option for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a meal prep favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Balanced Flavors – The perfect mix of tangy, creamy, and sweet.
- Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for days.
- Customizable – Add protein or extra veggies to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Enjoy it as a light meal or side dish!
Ingredients for Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rigatoni Pasta | 2 cups | Cooked al dente |
| Feta Cheese | ¾ cup | Crumbled |
| Dried Cranberries | ½ cup | Adds a touch of sweetness |
| Baby Spinach | 2 cups | Fresh and chopped |
| Red Onion | ¼ cup | Thinly sliced |
| Walnuts | ½ cup | Toasted for crunch |
| Olive Oil | ⅓ cup | Base for the vinaigrette |
| Lemon Juice | 3 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Honey | 1 tbsp | Balances acidity |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tsp | Adds a slight tang |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
How to Make Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Set aside to let the flavors blend.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, feta cheese, dried cranberries, spinach, red onion, and walnuts.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
- Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!
5 Tips for the Best Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice – It makes a big difference in flavor.
- Toast the Walnuts – Enhances their nuttiness and crunch.
- Let It Rest – A short rest time helps the flavors meld together.
- Add Protein – Grilled chicken or chickpeas make it a complete meal.
- Customize It – Swap spinach for arugula or kale for a different taste.
Variations to Try
- Nut-Free Option – Replace walnuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Creamier Dressing – Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt for extra richness.
- Extra Freshness – Mix in chopped basil or parsley for a fresh twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just store the dressing separately and mix before serving.
What other cheese can I use?
Goat cheese or blue cheese are great alternatives to feta.
Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, farfalle, or rotini work just as well.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a quick toss before eating.
Try This Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Today!
This Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Recipe is a refreshing, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a side or a light main course, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Enjoy and happy cooking!