This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish perfect for any occasion! The creamy feta and sweet dried cranberries create a delightful contrast, while crunchy walnuts add texture. Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad is not only visually appealing but also quick and easy to prepare. It’s suitable as a light meal or a refreshing side dish, making it an ideal choice for gatherings and picnics.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation – With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious salad in no time.
Flavor Explosion – The combination of feta, cranberries, and walnuts provides a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Versatile Dish – Serve it as a main course or side; it fits seamlessly into any meal plan!
Nutritious Ingredients – Packed with nutrients from spinach, nuts, and whole-grain pasta, it’s as healthy as it is tasty.
Easily Customizable – Feel free to add more veggies or protein to suit your taste preferences!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth. Having the right equipment on hand ensures you can whip up this salad effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot – Essential for boiling the rigatoni to perfection without overcrowding.
Colander – Helps drain the pasta quickly and efficiently after cooking.
Mixing bowl – Perfect for combining all ingredients without spilling.
Whisk – Ideal for mixing the lemon vinaigrette smoothly.

Ingredients

Pasta and Greens

12 oz rigatoni pasta
2 cups baby spinach

Cheese and Nuts

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped

Fruits and Vegetables

1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Boil rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain using a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2. 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
3. 1 teaspoon honey
4. 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
5. Salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. The cooked rigatoni.
2. 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese.
3. 1/3 cup dried cranberries.
4. 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped.
5. 2 cups baby spinach.
6. 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for enhanced flavor before enjoying this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette!

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

Serve the salad as a light main course, especially on warm days. The pasta and feta provide enough protein and carbs to satisfy.

As a Side Dish

Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing side. The lemon vinaigrette complements many proteins beautifully.

At a Potluck

Bring this salad to gatherings. Its vibrant colors and flavors are sure to impress your friends and family.

Chilled for Lunch

Make it ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator for an easy, grab-and-go lunch option. The flavors meld together even better after sitting.

On a Picnic

Pack this salad in a portable container for an outdoor meal. Its ingredients hold up well without wilting quickly.

With Extra Greens

Serve over a bed of mixed greens for added texture and nutrition. This makes it more substantial if desired.

How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

To elevate your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, consider these simple tips that will enhance flavor and presentation.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality feta will make a significant difference in taste.
Toast the Walnuts: Toasting enhances their flavor and adds crunch. Simply heat them in a dry skillet until fragrant.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; you might need to add more salt or pepper depending on personal preference.
Add Protein: For extra heartiness, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad.
Serve Cold: Allow the salad to chill for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps all flavors develop fully.
Garnish Creatively: Finish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Pairing the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with complementary side dishes can create an enjoyable meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in lemon herbs pairs well with the tangy salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer rich flavors that balance the dish.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides texture and is perfect for soaking up any leftover vinaigrette.
Quinoa Tabbouleh: A refreshing grain salad loaded with parsley, tomatoes, and cucumbers complements the pasta beautifully.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa add another layer of flavor while being visually appealing.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes dressed lightly will harmonize well with your rigatoni salad.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness balances out the tangy notes of the vinaigrette perfectly.
Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is simple, but some common mistakes can hinder the flavor and texture of your dish.

Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking rigatoni for too long can lead to mushy pasta. Always follow package instructions and test for al dente texture.
Skipping the Rinse: After boiling, failing to rinse the pasta can result in clumping. Rinse under cold water to stop cooking and separate the noodles.
Using Stale Ingredients: Fresh ingredients are key for flavor. Check that your feta, cranberries, and spinach are fresh before using them in this salad.
Not Balancing Flavors: If you don’t taste your vinaigrette, it may be too acidic or not flavorful enough. Adjust seasonings gradually until it suits your taste.
Forgetting to Toast Walnuts: Skipping this step can lead to a less flavorful salad. Toasting enhances their natural flavor and adds crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Freeze for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container.
Consider freezing without the dressing for better texture after thawing.

Reheating Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15 minutes, covered.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute rigatoni with penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep.

How can I customize my Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

You can add grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or swap nuts for seeds based on your preference!

What should I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side dish at picnics and potlucks.

Final Thoughts

The Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not only vibrant and delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the vinaigrette. Try making this delightful dish today—it’s sure to become a favorite!

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Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of our Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette—an easy, refreshing dish perfect for any gathering or a simple weeknight dinner. The creamy feta cheese pairs beautifully with sweet dried cranberries, while crunchy walnuts add texture and depth. Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad is not just visually appealing but also nutritious. With its quick preparation time and versatile serving options, it’s ideal as a light meal or a delightful side dish for picnics and potlucks. Enjoy this colorful pasta salad that combines taste and health in every bite!

Instructions

Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the vinaigrette.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rigatoni, spinach, feta cheese, cranberries, walnuts, and red onion.
Drizzle with the lemon vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.
Serve immediately or chill for enhanced flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Mediterranean