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Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Refreshing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad for Light Summer Days

A vibrant Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad that is quick to prepare, perfectly refreshing and delightful for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 2 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Rigatoni Pasta Can substitute with farfalle or penne.
For the Salad
  • 6 oz Feta Cheese (crumbled) Goat cheese can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion (finely chopped) Shallots can be used for milder flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) Basil can be used for a twist.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Any light-flavored oil can be a good alternative.
  • 3 tbsp Lemon Juice Lime juice is a tasty substitute.
  • 1 tbsp Honey Maple syrup can be used for a vegan option.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be used if needed.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to personal taste preferences.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil over high heat. Add the rigatoni and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Rinse the rigatoni under cold running water for about 1-2 minutes, gently tossing it to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
  3. In the bowl with the cooled pasta, crumble the feta cheese and add it to the mix, followed by the dried cranberries, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped parsley.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Add in salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture, and gently toss everything together, being careful not to mangle the feta or cranberries.
  6. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best texture, ensure to cook rigatoni to al dente and store the dressing separately until serving if made in advance.

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