Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min

How to make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad

Ingredients:

8 ounce penne pasta
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
2 cups baby spinach
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is well combined.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, feta cheese, cranberries, walnuts, spinach, and red onion.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.

Pro Tips

Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from becoming mushy.
You can toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad is vibrant and packed with flavor. The creamy feta cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet cranberries, making it a delightful dish for lunch or dinner. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a colorful addition to any meal.

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad

Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a great side dish for grilled chicken or fish. You can also enjoy it as a light lunch on its own.

How to Store Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips to Make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad

For extra flavor, add some herbs like basil or parsley.
You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer.

Variation

Feel free to add other ingredients like diced apples, grilled chicken, or different types of cheese for more variety.

Nutrition Information:

Storage and Reheating

This salad tastes best when fresh but can be stored in the fridge. It’s not recommended to reheat as it is meant to be served cold.

Customization Ideas

Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste. You can make it tangier with more Dijon mustard or sweeter with additional honey.

Disclaimer:

Always check for allergies when preparing or consuming this recipe, especially with nuts and dairy products.

Why Make This Recipe

This refreshing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad is quick to prepare, healthy, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a tasty meal prep option.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat penne pasta?
Yes, whole wheat penne works well and adds extra fiber.
Is there a vegan alternative for feta cheese?
Yes, you can use a plant-based feta or omit it altogether.
Can I add more vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to include cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes.
How long can this salad sit out at a potluck?
It’s best consumed within 2 hours if left at room temperature, to ensure freshness.
Can I make the vinaigrette in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the vinaigrette a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good shake before using it.

Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad