Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor and sunshine, then you’ve come to the right place! The Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a delightful blend of savory feta cheese, tangy cranberries, and a refreshing lemon vinaigrette. This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or outdoor picnics. Every bite brings a smile and makes you feel like you’re enjoying a summer day, no matter the season!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple yet satisfying it is. It’s one of those dishes that you can whip up in no time, making it an ideal choice for both laid-back lunches and festive occasions. Let’s dive into why this salad will soon become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes total time, this salad is perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious without the hassle.
• Crowd-pleaser: The combination of flavors balances sweet, salty, and tangy notes, making it appealing to all ages.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it in advance and let it chill in the fridge before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully!
• Versatile ingredients: Swap out veggies or add proteins as you like—this salad adapts to your taste preferences!
• Healthy goodness: Packed with nutrients from fresh ingredients like cucumbers and tomatoes, it’s not just filling but also good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This list includes everything needed to create that beautiful Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. You’ll find these items are easily available at your local grocery store:

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

One of the best parts about cooking is that you can put your own spin on things! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Change up the cheese: Try goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re looking for something different.
• Seasonal vegetables: Incorporate seasonal produce like bell peppers or zucchini to keep things fresh and exciting.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your salad a little kick!

How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is crucial because salting the water enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 10 minutes usually does the trick. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops cooking immediately and cools it down so that it doesn’t wilt other ingredients when mixed.

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 smooth and emulsified. This zesty vinaigrette ties all the flavors together beautifully!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled rigatoni with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle your homemade lemon vinaigrette over this vibrant mixture and toss gently. Make sure every piece gets coated—this will ensure each bite is packed with flavor!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top as garnish—it adds such a lovely pop of color! Serve immediately if you’re ready to dig in or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling allows those delightful flavors to meld even more.

And there you have it! A wonderful Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette that’s ready to brighten up your table! Enjoy every bite!

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

Elevate your pasta salad experience with these simple yet effective tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh produce and high-quality feta. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a vibrant presentation.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. This step ensures each bite is bursting with zesty goodness.
• Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, roasted bell peppers or spinach can add extra nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt to the lemon vinaigrette. This will give your dressing a lovely richness while still keeping it light.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just be sure to store the dressing separately until you’re ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Presenting your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or mint can add an aromatic touch that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Toasted Nuts: Adding a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans provides a satisfying crunch and enhances the overall texture of the salad.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Platter: An assortment of grilled seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant brings color and additional nutrients to your meal.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus paired with crispy pita chips makes for a delightful appetizer that complements the Mediterranean theme of your pasta salad.
• Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella (or vegan alternative), and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze are refreshing bites that balance well with the rigatoni salad.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon vinaigrette mirrors the freshness of your main dish while providing added protein.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad will surely shine at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, and the flavors only get better as it sits. Here’s how to store and keep your delicious salad fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you’re worried about sogginess, consider keeping the vinaigrette separate until serving.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the pasta and feta cheese.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s meant to be served cold.
• However, if you prefer it warm, you can gently reheat the pasta in a microwave for about 30 seconds before mixing with other ingredients.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can substitute rigatoni with any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just remember to keep the dressing separate if you’re concerned about sogginess!

Can I add more vegetables to Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even avocados for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is there a substitute for feta cheese in the salad?

Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta or crumbled tofu mixed with nutritional yeast for a similar texture and flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! Its vibrant flavors and delightful textures make it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing lunch for yourself or bringing a dish to share at gatherings, this salad is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!