Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brightens your day, then Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is just what you need! This pasta salad is packed with flavor and color, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of creamy feta cheese, sweet cranberries, and zesty lemon vinaigrette creates a symphony of tastes that everyone will love. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and good times!

Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a barbecue, or simply need a light lunch, this salad fits the bill. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—perfect for those moments when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes! Perfect for those days when you need something fast yet satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: With its vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge. Just grab it when you’re ready to serve!
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main dish, this salad is perfect for any occasion—from casual lunches to festive gatherings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like whole grains and vegetables, this recipe offers both flavor and health benefits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. Gather them up for an easy prep!

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 this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
• Go green: Mix in some spinach or arugula for added nutrients and color.
• Change up the cheese: Try goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for something different.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños if you enjoy a little kick!

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 (usually about 10 minutes). Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. This step is vital because it prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with other ingredients.

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 emulsified and smooth. This vinaigrette adds brightness to your salad and balances out the flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle your delicious lemon vinaigrette over everything and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. This step ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish. Serve immediately for maximum freshness or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving. Either way, you’re in for a treat!

Enjoy sharing this vibrant Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with friends and family—it’s sure to become one of your favorites!

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

Creating the perfect Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is all about attention to detail and personal touches. Here are some tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your salad, making it more appealing.

• Customize the pasta shape: While rigatoni is excellent for holding the vinaigrette, feel free to experiment with other shapes like penne or fusilli for a fun twist.

• Adjust sweetness: If you’re a fan of tangy flavors, consider omitting the honey or reducing it for a zestier salad, allowing the lemon to shine through.

• Make ahead of time: Preparing your salad a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more delicious experience when it’s time to serve.

• Add protein: For a heartier meal, toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas. This will not only boost the protein content but also make it more filling for lunch or dinner.

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Serving your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad should be as delightful as making it! With just a few thoughtful touches, you can present this colorful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Extra parsley: A handful of freshly chopped parsley can brighten up the presentation while enhancing the freshness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms make a great side that complements the salad’s freshness.

• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This protein-packed salad with chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives adds another layer of Mediterranean flair.

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra lemon vinaigrette and adds a satisfying crunch alongside your pasta salad.

Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions and tips! Your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette will shine at any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Plus, it tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days, but for optimal freshness, consume within 1-2 days.
• If possible, store the vinaigrette separately and add it just before serving to maintain the pasta’s texture.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the pasta and vegetables once thawed.
• Instead, make a smaller batch if you’re planning on having leftovers.

Reheating

• If you’d like to enjoy this salad warm, you can gently heat it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary.
• Keep in mind that fresh vegetables like cucumber and tomatoes are best enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful salad!

Can I use other types of pasta in the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

Absolutely! You can substitute rigatoni with any other pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or farfalle. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture.

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

This delicious salad can last in the refrigerator for about 3 days. For optimal flavor and freshness, it’s best consumed within 1-2 days.

Can I add more ingredients to my Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like bell peppers, spinach, or nuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes! The Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is vegetarian-friendly and packed with nutritious ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavors that come together beautifully. I hope you find joy in preparing this dish and sharing it with loved ones at your next gathering or picnic. It’s such a crowd-pleaser that I’m sure it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Enjoy making it!