As I tossed together the latest creation in my kitchen, a delightful melody of colors and textures unfolded before my eyes. Behold the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad—a refreshing twist on your typical pasta dish that will have you yearning for more. This salad harmonizes the rich creaminess of feta with the sweet pop of cranberries, all intertwined with the zesty allure of a lemon vinaigrette. Not only is it quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also packed with vibrant flavors that will impress your family and friends, proving that delicious homemade meals don’t have to be complicated. Ready to elevate your mealtime and embrace this uplifting salad? Let’s dive in! Why is this salad the perfect summer dish? Freshness at its finest: This vibrant salad brings together the best of summer flavors, ensuring each bite is a refreshing escape. Versatility at its core: Enjoy it as a light lunch, a side for grilled chicken, or even as a star at your next barbecue. Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings. Nutritional boost: Packed with wholesome ingredients like feta and cranberries, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that tastes divine. With endless possibilities for variation, why not try adding grilled zucchini or crunchy nuts? If you’re looking for more creative salad ideas, check out our Feta Avocado Salad or Cucumber Caprese Salad. This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire! Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Ingredients • Get ready to whip up this delicious salad! For the Pasta • Rigatoni Pasta – Holds the zesty lemon vinaigrette beautifully, but you can also swap it with penne or farfalle for variety. For the Salad • Feta Cheese (crumbled) – Brings a creamy tanginess that perfectly balances the sweetness of cranberries; goat cheese is a lovely alternative. • Dried Cranberries – Provide delightful sweetness and texture, making them essential for the salad’s charm; avoid fresh cranberries due to their tartness. • Red Onion (finely chopped) – Adds a sharp crunch; you can use shallots if you prefer a milder taste. • Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Brightens the dish with color and flavor; basil can be used for a fragrant twist. For the Vinaigrette • Olive Oil – Acts as the luscious base of the vinaigrette; use any mild oil you have on hand. • Lemon Juice – Infuses a zesty kick and acidity that’s irresistible; lime juice is a great substitute if you want to mix things up! • Honey – Balances the tartness of lemon and cranberries; feel free to replace it with maple syrup for a vegan twist. • Dijon Mustard – Helps emulsify the vinaigrette while enhancing the overall flavor; yellow mustard will do in a pinch. • Salt & Black Pepper – Elevate the flavors; adjust to suit your taste for the perfect finish. This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is ready to shine on your dinner table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Step 1: Boil the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a vigorous boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt to the water—this enhances the flavor of your rigatoni. Carefully add the rigatoni and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente. You’ll want it to have a slight bite, ensuring a perfect texture for your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. Step 2: Drain and Rinse When the pasta is al dente, carefully pour it into a colander to drain. To stop the cooking process and cool the pasta, rinse it under cold running water for about a minute, gently tossing with your hands. This cooling technique prevents the rigatoni from becoming mushy and allows for a delightful bite in your finished salad. Step 3: Combine Pasta and Feta Transfer the cooled rigatoni to a large mixing bowl, ensuring it’s well-drained. Crumble the feta cheese over the pasta, allowing its creamy texture to blend beautifully with the rigatoni. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors of your ingredients, setting the stage for a delicious Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Step 4: Add the Vegetables Next, finely chop the red onion and sprinkle it into the bowl along with the dried cranberries and chopped parsley. These ingredients will add a delightful crunch and sweetness, elevating the flavor profile of your salad. Give the mixture a gentle toss to evenly distribute the vegetables while preserving the integrity of the feta. Step 5: Whisk the Vinaigrette In a separate bowl, prepare your zesty lemon vinaigrette by whisking together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Add a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the mixture is combined and emulsion forms, creating a luscious dressing that will enhance your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. Step 6: Toss the Salad Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture in the large bowl. Using a pair of tongs or a large spoon, toss gently but thoroughly so that every piece of rigatoni and cranberries is evenly coated in the zesty dressing. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite of the salad is bursting with flavor. Step 7: Taste and Adjust After tossing, taste a small portion of your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper, if desired. This step allows you to fine-tune the flavors to your liking, ensuring that this delightful salad meets your taste expectations perfectly. Step 8: Chill or Serve For the best flavor, consider letting your salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together. However, if you’re ready to serve, feel free to dish it out immediately. This refreshing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad can also be served right away for a quick, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress! Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Variations Feel free to personalize this delicious salad and make it uniquely yours with these enticing variations! Nutty Crunch: Add slivered almonds or pine nuts for a satisfying crunchy texture that complements the creamy feta beautifully. Grilled Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for an added protein boost, transforming this salad into a heartier meal. Pasta Play: Switch things up by using different pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini, adding a fun twist to the familiar flavors. Herb Infusion: Substitute parsley with fresh basil or mint for a delightful aromatic flavor that elevates your salad. Sweet Surprise: Toss in some diced apples or pears for an unexpected burst of sweetness that pairs perfectly with cranberries. Zesty Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to spice things up! Creamy Delight: Swap feta for creamy goat cheese or a tangy ricotta salata; either option will bring a new layer of flavor to the dish. More Veggies: Add in grilled zucchini or roasted bell peppers to enhance the vibrant colors and add depth to your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. With these variations, you can keep this salad exciting for every occasion. If you’re in the mood for more salads, consider trying our refreshing Crab Pasta Salad or add a twist with some Grilled Zucchini Feta. Enjoy making this dish your own! Make Ahead Options These Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal with minimal effort! You can cook the rigatoni and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Moreover, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge to keep it fresh and vibrant. Just remember to keep the dressing separate from the salad until you’re ready to serve, which helps prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad, simply toss the pasta, feta, cranberries, and veggies together, drizzle in the vinaigrette, and you’ll have a delightful, ready-to-eat dish that’s just as delicious as when freshly made! How to Store and Freeze Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Fridge: Store your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness. Leftovers: If you have any leftover salad, simply seal it tightly; the flavors will continue to meld in the fridge. Dressing Storage: For the best results, keep the lemon vinaigrette in a separate container until you’re ready to serve, preventing the pasta from becoming soggy. Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to potential texture changes in the pasta and vegetables, which can lead to a less enjoyable eating experience. Expert Tips for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Pasta Perfection: Ensure you cook the rigatoni until al dente for the ideal bite; overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy salad. Freshness Matters: Rinse and cool the pasta thoroughly to stop the cooking process. This helps maintain a pleasant texture in your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. Dressing Storage: If prepping in advance, store the vinaigrette separately to avoid sogginess. Toss just before serving for maximum freshness. Flavor Adjustments: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to make sure your salad is perfectly seasoned. Creative Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with your ingredients! Use goat cheese instead of feta or add nuts for added crunch in your pasta salad. What to Serve with Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Brighten up your dining table with delightful pairings for this refreshing and vibrant pasta dish! Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken complements the salad perfectly, adding a satisfying protein that enhances the meal. Serve it hot off the grill for an unforgettable flavor. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies, like zucchini and bell peppers, adds depth and a hearty bite, making each forkful an adventure in taste. The smokiness of the roasted flavor harmonizes beautifully with the salad’s freshness. Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up salad and adds a savory contrast that pairs wonderfully with the zesty vinaigrette. Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden, crispy wedges offer a comforting texture that beautifully balances the lightness of the salad, making for a satisfying meal experience. White Wine Spritzer: A chilled spritzer with hints of citrus can elevate your dining experience, matching the salad’s invigorating flavors while keeping things refreshing. Lemon Sorbet: Cleanse your palate with this light and zesty dessert that mirrors the vibrant notes in the rigatoni salad, leaving a refreshing finish to your meal. Mediterranean Style Grilled Shrimp: Marinating shrimp in olive oil and herbs before grilling adds an enticing seafood element that melds with the fresh ingredients in the salad, making it a stellar main dish. Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ingredients for my Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad? Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, opt for firm, creamy feta cheese that crumbles well without being overly moist. Look for dried cranberries that aren’t overly hard or sticky; they should be plump and sweet. For the rigatoni, pick a brand that feels sturdy, as it will hold the vinaigrette better. Fresh parsley should be vibrant green and not wilted. If you’re substituting any ingredients, keep these quality standards in mind for the best results. How should I store my Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad? Very good question! Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. If you have extra vinaigrette, store it separately to avoid sogginess. Just give the salad and vinaigrette a gentle toss before serving again, and you’ll be ready to savor those flavors! Can I freeze the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad? Unfortunately, I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad. Freezing can lead to texture changes in the pasta and vegetables, which might make it less enjoyable once thawed. If you’d like to prepare portions in advance, consider freezing the dressing separately and assembling the salad fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it! What should I do if my salad is too dry? If you find your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is a bit too dry, don’t fret! Simply drizzle an extra tablespoon or two of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice over the salad. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. This will revive the salad and enhance the flavors beautifully. Can I make this salad ahead of time? Certainly! You can prepare your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad a few hours in advance or even the night before. I’d recommend keeping the vinaigrette separate until just before serving to keep the pasta from absorbing too much moisture. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious when it’s time to enjoy! Is this salad suitable for vegetarians and people with allergies? Yes! The Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is a fantastic vegetarian option. However, if you or your guests have any allergies, especially to dairy (feta), it’s best to check alternatives such as vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. Make sure to read ingredient labels on any store-bought ingredients to avoid cross-contamination if necessary. Zesty Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad You’ll Crave Every Summer A refreshing twist on pasta, this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad combines creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and zesty vinaigrette for a perfect summer dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 52 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladsCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta2 cups Rigatoni Pasta Can be substituted with penne or farfalle.For the Salad1 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled) Goat cheese is a lovely alternative.1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Avoid fresh cranberries due to their tartness.1/4 cup Red Onion (finely chopped) Shallots can be used for a milder taste.1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) Basil can be used for a fragrant twist.For the Vinaigrette1/4 cup Olive Oil Any mild oil can be used.2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Lime juice is a great substitute.1 tablespoon Honey Maple syrup can replace it for a vegan option.1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard substitutes well.to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to suit your taste. Equipment Large PotColanderMixing bowlWhisk Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBoil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a vigorous boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the rigatoni for 10-12 minutes until al dente.Drain and Rinse: Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.Combine Pasta and Feta: Transfer the cooled rigatoni to a bowl and crumble feta cheese over it.Add the Vegetables: Add finely chopped red onion, dried cranberries, and chopped parsley, then toss gently.Whisk the Vinaigrette: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.Toss the Salad: Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.Taste and Adjust: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.Chill or Serve: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 4gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg NotesThis salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best flavor, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
