There is something truly delightful about the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe that makes it a standout in any meal lineup. Combining the tangy creaminess of feta with the natural sweetness of dried cranberries, this dish offers a vibrant burst of flavors with every bite. The orange vinaigrette adds a bright and refreshing twist that ties all the ingredients together beautifully. Whether you need a quick lunch, a picnic favorite, or a potluck star, this salad delivers freshness, crunch, and a touch of elegance in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity, yet each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a symphony of taste, texture, and color. Fresh orange juice brings brightness, feta adds a creamy saltiness, and cranberries lend a pop of sweetness. Together, they make this recipe incredibly satisfying and visually appealing.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to capture vinaigrette and hold all the mix-ins.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy richness balancing the sweet and savory flavors.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Provides chewy bursts of natural sweetness throughout the salad.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Offers a mild sharpness and crunch that keeps the salad lively.
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds a delightful nutty crunch and depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a fresh, herbal note to brighten every bite.
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice: The star ingredient in the vinaigrette, lending a zesty, citrusy freshness.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Smoothens the vinaigrette and brings subtle fruitiness.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Adds tang and balance to the dressing’s sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: Gently sweetens the vinaigrette to harmonize all flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and rounding out the salad’s complexity.
How to Make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Cook the penne pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. This step is straightforward but crucial — perfect al dente pasta forms the hearty base that absorbs flavors without becoming mushy. After cooking, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta for the salad.
Step 2: Combine the main salad ingredients
In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta together with the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped red onion, and the toasted nuts if you’re using them. This mixture brings a beautiful balance of creamy, sweet, tart, and crunchy textures that are so enjoyable to eat.
Step 3: Prepare the orange vinaigrette
Whisk together the fresh orange juice, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This vinaigrette is light yet bursting with citrus notes that complement the salad’s ingredients perfectly, making it feel bright and refreshing.
Step 4: Toss the salad with the vinaigrette
Pour the orange vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated. This ensures every bite delivers that wonderful tangy sweetness that makes the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe so unique.
Step 5: Garnish and chill
Finish by garnishing the salad with freshly chopped parsley. The fresh green herb adds just the right pop of color and a hint of freshness. You can serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this salad, sprinkle a little extra crumbled feta and some more chopped parsley on top just before serving. A few extra toasted nuts scattered over the surface also add great texture and appeal, making your presentation inviting and appetizing.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with light proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a simple piece of baked salmon. It also shines alongside crusty artisan bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded, colorful meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe in individual mason jars or colorful bowls for picnics or lunch on the go. Layering the salad and vinaigrette in a glass jar keeps everything fresh and visually attractive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind the pasta may soak up some vinaigrette over time, so a quick toss before serving can bring back the bright flavor.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the texture of the pasta, cheese, and vinaigrette can change upon thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh or freshly stored in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheating is not necessary or advised for this salad. It’s a cold dish that tastes best chilled or at room temperature, allowing the vibrant flavors and textures to shine.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the dressing and mix-ins, you can substitute with fusilli, farfalle, or even rotini as they have similar shapes and textures.
Is there a vegan version of the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe?
Yes! Simply substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or add toasted tofu cubes for some protein without losing the creaminess.
Can I prepare the salad in advance for a party?
Yes, you can prepare the main components ahead of time but combine them and add the vinaigrette shortly before serving to keep the salad fresh and prevent sogginess.
What can I use instead of dried cranberries?
If you want a change, try dried cherries, golden raisins, or chopped dried apricots for a similar sweet-tart burst.
How can I adjust the sweetness in the orange vinaigrette?
You can tweak the honey or maple syrup to your liking or swap them out for agave nectar or a little sugar depending on your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
If you are searching for a salad that’s bursting with flavor and festive colors, the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe is an absolute winner to try. It’s quick to prepare, wonderfully balanced, and perfect for any occasion where you want something fresh, tasty, and a little bit special. Give it a go and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and colorful pasta salad combining tangy feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy nuts, and a bright orange vinaigrette. Perfect for a light meal or side dish served chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Pasta and Salad
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Orange Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, finely chopped red onion, and toasted nuts if using. Mix gently to combine all ingredients.
- Prepare Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
- Toss Salad: Pour the orange vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the salad and serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute the dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins if preferred.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the toasted pecans or walnuts.
- The salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated to allow flavors to meld.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if using salted feta cheese.
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best vinaigrette flavor.
