Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that will brighten up your day, this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is just the ticket! This delightful pasta salad combines savory feta cheese and tart cranberries, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or family gatherings because it’s quick to make and always a hit. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic or serving it as a side at your next BBQ, this salad hit all the right notes of sweet, salty, and tangy.

What makes this dish truly special is how well the flavors come together. The crunchy cucumber and juicy tomatoes add freshness, while the feta brings in creaminess that balances perfectly with the cranberries’ sweetness. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand for every occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious fast.
• Family-Friendly: With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, even picky eaters will enjoy this pasta salad.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this salad in advance! Letting it chill enhances the flavors, making it ideal for meal prep or potlucks.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a light lunch or as an accompaniment at parties, this salad fits any occasion.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and nutritious ingredients, this salad is as healthy as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! Each component adds its own flavor and texture, creating a deliciously balanced dish.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to personalize your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad:

• Add some protein: Toss in cooked chicken or chickpeas to transform this salad into a more filling meal.
• Change up the cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or mozzarella if you prefer something creamier or milder.
• Mix in different veggies: Try adding bell peppers, spinach, or arugula for extra color and nutrients.
• Spice things up: For those who love heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes to give your salad an exciting 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). This step is crucial because cooking the pasta just right will ensure it’s tender but still has that nice bite. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This cooling process stops the cooking and helps prevent mushy pasta!

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 everything together until emulsified and smooth. This bright vinaigrette not only adds flavor but also brings all the ingredients 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 the lemon vinaigrette over everything and toss gently to combine. It’s important to mix gently so you don’t break up the feta too much—keeping those lovely chunks intact makes each bite more enjoyable!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish. You can serve immediately for a refreshing dish or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together even better!

And there you have it—a delightful Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette that will become a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy!

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

Creating a delicious pasta salad is all about balance and freshness, and these tips will help you nail it!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers to brighten your dish.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

• Customize your add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers or olives. This flexibility allows you to cater to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Adjust the dressing: If you love a tangy flavor, add more lemon juice or Dijon mustard. Adjusting the dressing can personalize your salad perfectly!

• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the pasta and vinaigrette in advance. Just store them separately until you’re ready to assemble for maximum freshness.

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Serving this vibrant salad is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Adding toasted walnuts or almonds provides a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

• Extra parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances the salad’s aroma.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection complement the rigatoni salad’s flavors wonderfully.

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with olives, cucumbers, and lemon dressing makes for a nutritious pairing that echoes Mediterranean vibes.

• Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served alongside crispy pita chips offers a satisfying crunch and additional protein, making it a great appetizer before your main dish.

By putting these serving suggestions into practice, you’ll have a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette at your next gathering—it’s bound to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making it a great option for busy days or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• If you notice any excess liquid, simply drain it off before serving.

Freezing

• This pasta salad is not ideal for freezing due to the texture of the ingredients once thawed.
• If you must freeze it, consider omitting the feta cheese and fresh vegetables before freezing.
• To serve later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh feta and veggies before enjoying.

Reheating

• While this salad is best served cold or at room temperature, if you prefer warm pasta, you can gently reheat it on the stovetop.
• Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep it moist while warming.
• Avoid microwaving as it may change the texture too much.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious salad!

Can I make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after sitting for a while as the flavors meld together. Just prepare it a few hours in advance or the night before for a tastier result.

What can I use instead of feta cheese in Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice and herbs to mimic feta’s flavor. Alternatively, vegan cheese can also work well!

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 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy within that time frame for the best taste!

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

Feel free to customize your salad! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, nuts for crunch, or even grilled chicken if you’re not strict about dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette as much as I do! The combination of flavors is delightful, and it’s such a versatile dish that works well for various occasions. Whether you’re packing lunch or serving at a gathering, this pasta salad is sure to impress your friends and family. Happy cooking!