Name: Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Bright Lemon Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Rigatoni (Use whole wheat for extra nutrition.); 4 oz Feta Cheese (Crumble yourself from a block for freshness.); 1 cup Dried Cranberries (Can substitute with raisins.); 1/2 cup Walnuts (Sunflower seeds can be used for nut-free option.); 2 cups Baby Spinach (Kale can be used for a sturdier texture.); 1/2 medium Red Onion (Soak in water to mellow flavor if desired.); 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Avocado oil is a good substitute.); 2 Tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice (Lime juice is an alternative.); 1 Tbsp Honey (Maple syrup can replace for vegan option.); 1 tsp Dijon Mustard (Omit for simplicity or use yellow mustard.)

As I stood in my kitchen, a light breeze wafted through the window, carrying hints of summer. I couldn’t help but crave something fresh and vibrant, and that’s when I remembered my go-to dish: Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette. This colorful salad perfectly balances creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and a tangy dressing, making it not just a meal but a celebration of flavors and textures. One of the best parts? It comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a quick option for busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings. Whether served as a delightful light main or a stunning side dish, this Mediterranean-inspired salad promises to please every palate. Ready to dive in and explore this refreshing recipe? Let’s get started!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Simplicity at its Finest: This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is incredibly easy to whip up in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy cooks.

Bursting with Flavor: The combination of creamy feta and sweet cranberries, paired with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, creates a vibrant, mouthwatering experience.

Versatile Delight: Serve it as a light main course, a side for grilled meat, or even take it to your next picnic.

Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrient-rich spinach and heart-healthy walnuts, this salad meets your Mediterranean, gluten-free cravings while keeping it wholesome.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its beautiful colors and delightful textures, it’s sure to impress guests at any gathering!

Looking for more salad ideas? Check out our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad.

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Rigatoni – This pasta serves as the hearty base; opt for whole wheat for extra nutrition.
• Feta Cheese – Adds a creamy and salty flavor; using block feta and crumbling it yourself ensures the freshest taste.
• Dried Cranberries – Introduces a pleasant sweetness; substitute with raisins if you’re after a different flavor profile.
• Walnuts – Bring crunch and healthy fats; for a nut-free option, sunflower seeds work wonderfully.
• Baby Spinach – Adds vibrant freshness and nutrients; kale can be used for a sturdier texture.
• Red Onion – Offers sharpness to the salad; soaking it in water first can mellow out the flavor if desired.

For the Lemon Vinaigrette
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – The foundation of the vinaigrette; for a twist, avocado oil is an excellent substitute.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Provides tang and brightness; lime juice is a great alternative, bringing a different zest.
• Honey – Sweetens the dressing for a well-balanced flavor; maple syrup makes for a lovely vegan option.
• Dijon Mustard – Deepens the vinaigrette’s flavor; omit it for simplicity or swap with yellow mustard if preferred.

Every ingredient in this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette works together to create a dish that is not just delicious but also wholesome and satisfying!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Step 2: Prepare Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the mixture is well-emulsified and creamy. Taste the vinaigrette, and season with salt and pepper to your preference. This tangy lemon vinaigrette will beautifully complement the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad.

Step 3: Mix Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rigatoni, crumbled feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, fresh baby spinach, and sliced red onion. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently combine the ingredients without breaking the pasta shapes. The colorful components will create a visually appealing base for your salad.

Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the mixed salad ingredients. Using a large spoon, gently toss everything together to ensure an even coating of the dressing on the pasta and other elements. Be careful not to crush the rigatoni as you mix, aiming for a beautifully tossed Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad that is both appetizing and vibrant.

Step 5: Serve
Your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is now ready to enjoy! For the best flavor experience, serve it immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. This salad makes for a fresh and delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own creativity into this delicious salad, transforming it to fit your cravings and needs!

Protein Boost: Incorporate grilled chicken or chickpeas for a satisfying protein increase that’s sure to please.
Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor and a delightful splash of color.
Different Cheese: Swap in creamy goat cheese for a tangy twist that will take your palate on a delightful journey.
Nut Alternatives: Replace walnuts with pecans for a sweeter crunch, or use pumpkin seeds to keep it nut-free yet tasty.
Grainy Base: Try swapping rigatoni for quinoa to create a lighter dish while still capturing those Mediterranean flavors.
Herbal Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to elevate the flavor profile and give it a garden-fresh aroma.
Vegan Delight: For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing and consider cashew cheese for creaminess.
Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for an exciting heat boost!

Each of these variations can be a reflection of your personal tastes, making this salad not just a meal but a canvas for your culinary creativity. If you love experimenting with fresh salads, be sure to check out our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or add more vibrancy to your plate with a delightful spin!

Storage Tips for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.

Avoid Freezing: For optimal texture and flavor, do not freeze the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad, as the ingredients may become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating: If serving chilled, allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying. This will enhance the flavors without compromising the fresh ingredients.

Dressing Storage: Keep the lemon vinaigrette separate if preparing in advance. Dress the salad just before serving for the best taste and texture.

Expert Tips for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Pasta Perfection: Rinse the rigatoni thoroughly after cooking to prevent it from clumping together and ensure an ideal texture for your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad.
Fresh Feta: Always choose a block of feta cheese instead of pre-crumbled to capture the freshest flavor and creamy texture in your salad.
Dress Wisely: Add the lemon vinaigrette gradually. Start with a light drizzle and allow guests to add more if they prefer, preventing soggy pasta and maintaining vibrant flavors.
Chill for Flavor: If time allows, let the assembled salad chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. This simple step enhances the overall taste as the ingredients meld beautifully.
Nut Alternatives: If nut allergies are a concern, swapping walnuts for sunflower seeds not only keeps it safe but also adds a delightful crunch to the dish.

What to Serve with Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette?

This vibrant salad is a delightful centerpiece, and pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate your meal experience.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and charred, these skewers add protein and a smoky flavor that balances the salad’s brightness. They make an effortless addition for those looking to turn the dish into a fulfilling meal.
Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl: The nutty flavors of quinoa combined with roasted vegetables and herbs create a hearty yet healthy option that pairs beautifully with the tangy salad. It adds a filling grain element without overshadowing the bright taste of the rigatoni.
Crispy Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy bread with the fragrant aroma of garlic is perfect for absorbing the tangy lemon vinaigrette. It brings comforting familiar flavors to your meal, making it even more irresistible.
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp: Tender shrimp marinated in a lemon-herb dressing expands on the salad’s zest while offering a fresh seafood element. The citrus notes enhance the overall Mediterranean theme.
Roasted Beet Salad: Earthy roasted beets drizzled with a balsamic reduction provide a fantastic contrast in sweet flavors and textures. The vivid red color adds visual appeal alongside the rigatoni salad.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink, the bubbly texture and zesty lime can cleanse the palate between bites. It’s a perfect non-alcoholic choice to complement the meal without competing with the flavors.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For dessert, the sweet decadence of chocolate-covered strawberries is a delightful way to finish off the meal. Their fruity freshness mirrors the cranberries in the salad while offering a romantic touch.

Make Ahead Options

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cooked rigatoni, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality and prevent the pasta from clumping, ensure it is completely cooled before refrigerating. The lemon vinaigrette can also be made ahead of time; just whisk and store it overnight in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply combine everything in a large bowl, drizzle on the vinaigrette, and toss gently for a delicious, stress-free meal that’s just as fresh and flavorful!

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose firm, fresh ingredients. Look for rigatoni that is free from cracks, feta that is creamy and moist without any dark spots, and dried cranberries that are plump and vibrant. When it comes to fresh spinach, select bright green leaves without wilting. If you prefer, you can always substitute ingredients; for instance, using whole wheat rigatoni boosts nutrition, while block feta will elevate taste.

What is the best way to store leftover salad?
To maintain freshness, store any leftovers of your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the dressing separate from the salad until you’re ready to eat again. This prevents the rigatoni from getting soggy!

Can I freeze this salad?
I do not recommend freezing the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad as it may lead to a mushy texture when thawed. If you wish to prepare it in advance, you can certainly make the salad ahead but dress it just before serving for the best experience.

What if my pasta sticks together after cooking?
Very! If you find your rigatoni has clumped together after cooking, just rinse it again under cold water to separate the pieces. This not only cools down the pasta but also helps prevent any sticky mess. Make sure to toss it gently with a bit of olive oil if you’re not dressing it immediately.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This salad is vegetarian and can be easily adapted to be gluten-free using gluten-free pasta. If anyone is allergic to nuts, feel free to replace walnuts with pumpkin seeds or simply omit nuts altogether. Additionally, for a vegan option, substitute honey in the dressing for maple syrup.

How can I enhance the flavor of the salad before serving?
To truly bring the flavors to life, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. This waiting period allows the vibrant lemon vinaigrette to soak into all the ingredients, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious salad experience. Be sure to give it a gentle toss just before serving!