As I sliced into a plump orange, the sweet and citrusy aroma filled my kitchen, igniting my culinary inspiration. If you're seeking a vibrant and refreshing dish that can easily steal the spotlight at any gathering, look no further than this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette. In just under an hour, you can whip up this colorful meal that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful blend of flavors and textures. With its quick prep time and vibrant ingredients, it’s a fantastic option for those busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend brunch. Trust me, this dish will have your friends and family coming back for seconds! Ready to dive into a salad that’s as delicious as it is beautiful?
Why is this salad a must-try?
Bright, Flavorful Ingredients: This dish bursts with fresh spinach and arugula, providing a beautiful base that pairs wonderfully with the crumbled feta cheese and tart cranberries.
Easy to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, meal prep has never been more simple, allowing you to focus on the fun part—enjoying it!
Vibrant Citrus Dressing: The zesty orange vinaigrette enhances the flavors, making this salad a standout at any gathering.
Versatile Side or Main: Whether you're serving it as a colorful side for grilled chicken or as a light main course, this salad adapts to your meal effortlessly.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for potlucks and picnics, everyone will be raving about it, just like they do for my Cranberry Bundt Cake or Strawberry Pretzel Salad.
You won't be disappointed with this refreshing twist on a classic pasta salad!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Ingredients
• Get ready to create a refreshing dish!
For the Salad
- Penne pasta – 8 ounces, cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
- Fresh spinach – 1 cup, roughly chopped to add a nutrient boost.
- Fresh arugula – 1 cup, roughly chopped for a peppery kick.
- Feta cheese – 1 cup, crumbled to bring tangy creaminess.
- Dried cranberries – ½ cup, for that sweet and chewy contrast.
- Cherry tomatoes – ½ cup, halved to add juicy bursts of flavor.
- Red onion – ¼ cup, thinly sliced for a hint of sharpness.
For the Orange Vinaigrette
- Olive oil – ¼ cup, the base for a luscious dressing.
- Fresh orange juice – ¼ cup, gives the salad a zesty freshness.
- Orange zest – 1 tablespoon, enhances the citrusy aroma.
- Honey – 1 tablespoon, to balance the acidity with a touch of sweetness.
- Salt and pepper – to taste, ensuring all flavors shine.
Mix these vibrant ingredients to create your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad masterpiece!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the cooled pasta aside in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon orange zest, 1 tablespoon honey, and salt and pepper to taste. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is well blended and emulsified. Set the orange vinaigrette aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the salad.
Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
To the bowl with the cooled penne pasta, add 1 cup chopped fresh spinach, 1 cup chopped arugula, 1 cup crumbled feta cheese, ½ cup dried cranberries, ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes, and ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion. Gently toss these vibrant ingredients together using a spatula to ensure an even distribution of flavors throughout the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the prepared orange vinaigrette over the pasta salad mixture, ensuring an even coating. Use your spatula to gently toss all the ingredients together, mixing carefully until every piece is coated in the zesty dressing. This will enhance the salad's freshness and flavor, making it irresistible.
Step 5: Adjust the Seasoning
Take a moment to taste the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad, adjusting the seasoning if needed. Add a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper to elevate the flavors to your preference. This step ensures that every bite is perfectly seasoned and satisfying.
Step 6: Chill the Salad
Cover the salad with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors of the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette to meld beautifully, providing a refreshing and harmonious dish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, the salad can be served either cold or at room temperature. Spoon the vibrant Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad into bowls or onto a serving platter, and enjoy this delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
What to Serve With Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Transform your salad into a complete meal with these delightful pairings that enhance every bite.
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Grilled Chicken: Tender, juicy chicken adds a protein boost while complementing the salad’s fresh flavors and textures beautifully.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy on the outside and soft within, these warm breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the zesty orange vinaigrette left on the plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies adds depth and an earthy dimension, pairing exceptionally well with the bright taste of the salad.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa offers a hearty component, while its subtle flavor enhances the flavors of the salad without overwhelming them.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and lightly effervescent, this drink cleanses the palate and complements the vibrant citrus notes beautifully.
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Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert that echoes the bright flavors of the orange vinaigrette and cleanses the palate after the salads' burst of flavor.
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Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy, this fruity salsa brings an exciting twist that mirrors the elements in the salad and adds a tropical flair.
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Crispy Baked Tofu: For a vegetarian option, this crunchy tofu not only adds necessary protein but also a satisfying texture contrast to the salad.
Expert Tips for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Balance Your Flavors: Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. This way, your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad will have a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
Chill Time Matters: Remember to refrigerate your salad for at least 30 minutes! This allows the orange vinaigrette to meld and intensify the flavors.
Pasta Perfect: Ensure your penne is cooked al dente. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta, which may ruin the salad's texture.
Fresh is Best: When choosing your spinach and arugula, opt for fresh, vibrant leaves. Wilted greens will not only look unappealing but may also affect the taste.
Serve in Style: For added flair, consider garnishing with extra feta or a sprinkle of orange zest on top just before serving to elevate presentation.
Storage Tips for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Chilling helps the flavors develop, making each bite just as delicious as the first.
Freezer: It's best to avoid freezing this salad, as the fresh greens and feta may lose their texture once thawed.
Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy the salad at room temperature, simply take it out of the fridge about 20-30 minutes before serving. The Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad tastes best freshly chilled or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions: Feel free to add fresh greens or an extra drizzle of orange vinaigrette upon serving to revive its bright flavors after storage.
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Variations
Customize this delightful salad to suit your taste and preferences, adding your personal touch!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute penne with gluten-free pasta for a similar texture that's friendly to your gluten-sensitive friends.
- Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or chickpeas for a satisfying twist that transforms this salad into a hearty meal. You can mix in shredded chicken for a savory bite or toss in chickpeas for a fabulous vegetarian option that boosts the protein content.
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor tremendously. Finely chopped herbs not only add freshness but also create a beautiful color contrast in your dish.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans. Their crunchy texture complements the soft pasta and creamy feta perfectly! Plus, who doesn’t love a good crunch in their salad?
- Spicy Kick: For heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette or mix in some diced jalapeños for an exciting flavor explosion. This adds a zesty twist that can set your salad apart.
- Dried Fruit Variety: Swap out dried cranberries for dried cherries or apricots for a different fruitiness and texture that enhances the dish's overall taste. Whether you choose tart or sweet, your salad will sing with flavor!
- Vegan Version: Use a plant-based feta alternative and replace honey with maple syrup for a delicious vegan-friendly option that still satisfies. Enjoy all the flavor while catering to dietary preferences!
- Creamy Element: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy, creamy dressing that will take the salad to a whole new level of indulgence. A little creaminess goes a long way!
Each of these variations offers a unique twist, making it easy to experiment and find your new favorite version of this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad. Enjoy creating your masterpiece!
Make Ahead Options
These Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette options are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the pasta, vinaigrette, and chopped veggies up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the penne and rinse it under cold water, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The orange vinaigrette can also be whisked together and stored in a jar, making it easy to shake and drizzle later. To maintain quality, keep the chopped spinach, arugula, and other salad components separate and combine them just before serving to ensure freshness. When ready to enjoy, mix everything together with the dressing and let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld—resulting in a delightful dish with minimal last-minute effort!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pasta for my salad?
Absolutely! When selecting penne pasta for your salad, look for high-quality, durum wheat pasta that has a smooth surface. This helps the dressing cling better. You’ll want to cook it al dente, which means it should have a slight firmness to the bite. Not only does this texture hold up well in salads, but it also enhances the overall eating experience.
How long can I store my Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
You can store your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop, making each bite just as delightful as the first. Remember to give it a gentle toss before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed!
Can I freeze the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad. The fresh greens, such as spinach and arugula, and feta cheese might lose their appealing texture once thawed. If you happen to have leftover components, you could store the pasta alone in the freezer for up to 3 months; simply reheat it and then add the freshly prepared vinaigrette and greens before serving.
What should I do if my vinaigrette separates?
Very good question! If your vinaigrette separates, don’t worry—it’s a common occurrence. Simply whisk it together again until it’s emulsified. You can also try adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to help bring it back together. Shake it in a jar for efficiency, and it'll be good as new!
Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Definitely! If someone has a dairy allergy, you can easily substitute the feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, for nutritional gains, consider adding some almonds or walnuts for crunch. If serving pets the leftover salad, remember that onions can be harmful to them, so skip adding it to portions meant for furry friends.
How to make this salad even more vibrant?
For a visually stunning and flavorful upgrade, consider throwing in some seasonal fruits like mandarin segments or pomegranate seeds. Not only will these additions provide a pop of color, but they'll also introduce delightful new textures and bursts of sweetness that elevate your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Zesty Orange Vinaigrette
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, salt and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- In a large mixing bowl, add cooled penne pasta, chopped spinach, chopped arugula, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Gently toss together.
- Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently until well combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add salt or pepper to preference.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
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