As I savored every bite of the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, memories of sunlit picnics and vibrant summer gatherings came flooding back. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes with its colorful ingredients, but it also makes meal prep a delightful breeze—ready in just 20 minutes! Bursting with the savory richness of feta and the sweet, chewy cranberries, this Mediterranean-inspired salad is the perfect way to lighten up your lunch or impress your guests at a barbecue. Ideal for those who seek a refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe can easily become a staple in your kitchen. Are you ready to whip up this delightful summer celebration on your plate? Why is this salad a must-try? Quick and Easy: This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad requires just 20 minutes from kitchen to table, perfect for busy days. Vibrant Flavors: The zesty lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the creamy feta and sweet cranberries, creating a refreshing taste that’s irresistible. Meal Prep-Friendly: Make it ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to three days; it’s a go-to for packed lunches! Crowd-Pleasing: Whether at a potluck or summer barbecue, this salad is sure to impress guests with its bright color and delightful tastes. Versatile Options: Mix in grilled chicken or extra veggies for a heartier meal—this salad can easily adapt to your cravings. Feeling inspired? Check out the Feta Avocado Salad or discover more great summer options like Grilled Zucchini Feta for a balanced meal! Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Ingredients For the Pasta • Rigatoni Pasta – Provides structure and heartiness to the salad; can substitute with penne or fusilli. For the Cheese • Feta Cheese – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of cranberries; fresh is recommended. For the Sweet Element • Dried Cranberries – Their sweetness and chewiness enhance the overall flavor profile; alternatives include raisins or chopped dried apricots. For the Freshness • Mixed Fresh Vegetables (bell peppers, cucumbers) – Contributes crunch and freshness; substitute with other crisp veggies like zucchini. For the Dressing • Lemon Vinaigrette – Adds acidity and zesty flavor; start with less dressing and adjust to taste. • Olive Oil – Essential for smooth dressing; using extra virgin yields the best flavor. For Seasoning • Salt & Pepper – Essential for flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences. This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is not only a delicious choice but also packed with vibrant ingredients ready to brighten up your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Step 1: Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook for about 10 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent stickiness. Set the cooled pasta aside in a large mixing bowl. Step 2: Prepare the Dressing In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well emulsified and slightly thickened. The lemon vinaigrette should be tangy and balanced, so feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Once ready, set the dressing aside while you combine the other salad ingredients. Step 3: Combine the Ingredients In the bowl containing the cooled rigatoni, add the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and diced mixed vegetables such as bell peppers and cucumbers. Gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring the feta and cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the pasta. This step is crucial for achieving a harmonious blend of flavors in your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. Step 4: Dress the Salad Pour the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the pasta mixture, being careful not to add too much at once. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the vinaigrette, making sure to preserve the integrity of the feta. The salad should appear vibrant and glistening, indicating that it’s ready for the next step. Step 5: Chill the Salad Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste of the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. You’ll know it’s ready when the vegetables have slightly softened and absorbed some vinaigrette flavor. Step 6: Final Adjustments and Serve Before serving, taste the salad and make any final seasoning adjustments with salt and pepper if needed. If the salad seems too dry, add a splash more of the lemon vinaigrette. Transfer to a serving dish or individual bowls, showcasing the beautiful colors and ingredients. Your refreshing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is now ready to be enjoyed! Expert Tips for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Rinse Pasta: Always rinse your rigatoni after cooking to prevent it from becoming sticky. This keeps your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad light and fresh. Balance the Dressing: Start with a small amount of lemon vinaigrette and gradually add more until you find the perfect balance. Too much dressing can overwhelm the other flavors. Freshness Matters: Opt for fresh feta and crisp veggies; wilted ingredients can dull the vibrant taste of your salad. Chill for Flavor: Don’t skip the chilling time! Allowing the salad to rest enhances the flavors, making each bite even more delightful. Taste Test: Before serving, always taste and adjust your seasoning. Everyone’s palate is different, so a little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference! What to Serve with Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad? Elevate your mealtime experience with these delightful pairings that perfectly complement this vibrant and refreshing dish. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, seasoned chicken adds protein and heartiness, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal. Garlic Bread: This crunchy, buttery side brings warmth and flavor that balances the salad’s fresh zing. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized and sweet, they provide depth and a beautiful contrast to the tangy feta and cranberries, enhancing the meal’s overall nutrition. Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors of the salad while refreshing your palate. Caprese Salad: The creamy mozzarella and fresh basil blend harmoniously with the Mediterranean theme, creating a colorful and vibrant dining experience. Berry Sorbet: For dessert, a light, fruity sorbet cleanses the palate and mirrors the cranberries’ sweetness, concluding your meal on a refreshing note. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious, protein-packed salad can be a perfect side for added texture and nourishment, complementing the rigatoni beautifully. Pita Bread and Hummus: Crispy pita chips with smooth hummus provide a delightful appetizer that prepares your guests for the vibrant salad ahead. These choices create a delightful balance of flavors and textures, transforming your table into a feast! How to Store and Freeze Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for meal prep, ensuring freshness and flavor. Freezer: While not recommended for this salad due to the pasta and fresh vegetables, if necessary, freeze the components separately for up to 1 month. Thaw and combine when ready to serve. Reheating: If you’ve stored the salad in the fridge and prefer it warm, gently microwave it on low heat for short intervals, stirring often to avoid overheating. Customization Tip: When storing leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until ready to enjoy, ensuring your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad remains vibrant and fresh! Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Variations Feel free to get creative with your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad—there are plenty of ways to make it your own! Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a hearty source of protein and a filling meal. It’s a fantastic way to turn this salad into a more substantial dish! Pasta Alternative: Swap rigatoni for tri-color rotini or farfalle for a fun twist in presentation and texture. The visual appeal is sure to wow your guests! Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and crunch. These vibrant additions bring health and color to the salad! Sweet Twist: Replace dried cranberries with chopped dried apricots or even pomegranate seeds for a new layer of sweetness and a burst of flavor. Spicy Kick: Incorporate a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to ignite your taste buds with a bit of heat. This contrasting heat makes for a delightful surprise in each bite! Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint to brighten the flavors and offer a refreshing aroma. The herbs can elevate the salad to new culinary heights! Mediterranean Flair: Enhance with olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a more Mediterranean experience. These ingredients work harmoniously with feta, enriching the dish even further. Feeling inspired? For more delightful Mediterranean flavors, consider trying the Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad or the refreshing Grilled Zucchini with Feta for your next culinary adventure! Make Ahead Options These Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the rigatoni and prepare the lemon vinaigrette up to 24 hours in advance, storing both separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The cooled pasta can be refrigerated to prevent stickiness, while the vinaigrette should be stored in the fridge to preserve its tangy flavor. If you’d like, you can also chop the vegetables ahead of time; just keep them in a separate container to avoid moisture. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine all ingredients and dress the salad, and you’ll enjoy a delicious, vibrant meal without the rush! Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs What type of rigatoni should I use for this salad? I recommend using traditional rigatoni as it provides the perfect structure and heartiness for this dish. However, feel free to substitute with penne or even fusilli if you prefer. Just ensure that whatever pasta you choose cooks to al dente for that ideal bite! How long can I store the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad in the fridge? You can keep this salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it a wonderful option for meal prep! Just remember to stir it well before serving, as some ingredients may settle or separate. Can I freeze the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad? While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the entire salad due to the texture of the pasta and fresh vegetables, you can freeze the components separately for up to 1 month. To do this, cook the pasta and allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can also freeze the crumbled feta and cranberries separately. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight and combine everything fresh when you’re ready to serve! What are some common issues when making this salad? A common mistake is skipping the rinsing step after cooking the pasta. Rinsing prevents it from becoming gummy and helps keep the salad light. Also, be cautious while adding the dressing; start with a little and add more gradually to avoid overdressing, which can mask the lovely flavors! Is this salad safe for those with allergies? Definitely take care if you’re serving someone with food allergies! The Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad contains gluten from the pasta and dairy from the feta cheese. You can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting with gluten-free pasta and using a dairy alternative for the feta, like cashew cheese. Always check labels to ensure the ingredients meet your dietary needs! How can I customize this salad to fit my tastes? The beauty of the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad lies in its versatility! You can mix in roasted vegetables, grilled chicken for added protein, or even switch up the flavor profile by adding toasted nuts for extra crunch. Feel free to explore different fresh herbs as well, such as basil or parsley, to enhance the Mediterranean flair! Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Bliss This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladsCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 ounces Rigatoni Pasta can substitute with penne or fusilliFor the Cheese1 cup Feta Cheese fresh is recommendedFor the Sweet Element1 cup Dried Cranberries alternatives include raisins or chopped dried apricotsFor the Freshness2 cups Mixed Fresh Vegetables bell peppers, cucumbers; substitute with other crisp veggies like zucchiniFor the Dressing1/4 cup Lemon Vinaigrette adjust to taste1/4 cup Olive Oil extra virgin yields the best flavorFor Seasoning1 teaspoon Salt adjust according to taste1 teaspoon Pepper adjust according to taste Equipment Large Potmedium bowlMixing bowlWhisk Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook for about 10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.In a medium bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.In the bowl with the cooled rigatoni, add crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and diced mixed vegetables. Gently toss to combine.Pour the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning. If too dry, add more vinaigrette. Serve in a dish showcasing the colors. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 510mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 1.5mg NotesThis Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is perfect for potlucks and can be customized with additional proteins or vegetables. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
