This vibrant and refreshing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful combination of creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and a zesty orange vinaigrette. This Zesty Pasta Delight is perfect for a light lunch or a dish to bring to a potluck. The burst of flavors and textures in each bite is sure to please!
Why You’ll Love Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette recipe is a standout Zesty Pasta Delight:
- Bright Flavors: Sweet cranberries, tangy feta, and citrusy vinaigrette create a refreshing mix.
- Quick Prep: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with different nuts, cheeses, or proteins.
- I served this at a summer barbecue, and it was the ultimate Zesty Pasta Delight!
Ingredients for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Here’s what you’ll need for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette (serves 4):
- 12 oz penne pasta
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Orange Vinaigrette:
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Tips:
- Pasta: Penne holds the vinaigrette well; rotini or farfalle are great substitutes.
- Feta: Use high-quality, tangy feta; pre-crumbled works in a pinch.
- Cranberries: Dried cranberries add sweetness; substitute with raisins if needed.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed for the brightest flavor; avoid sweetened juice.
- Equipment: Large pot, colander, mixing bowl, whisk.
Directions for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Let’s create this flavorful Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette!
Cook the Pasta
I cook 12 oz penne pasta according to package instructions, about 8–10 minutes, until al dente. I drain and rinse under cold water to cool, ensuring the pasta doesn’t clump.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, I toss the cooled pasta with ½ cup crumbled feta, ½ cup dried cranberries, ¼ cup chopped red onion, and ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (if using) for a vibrant Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette.
Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, I whisk ¼ cup fresh orange juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
Toss the Salad
I pour the orange vinaigrette over the pasta mixture, gently tossing to coat evenly, ensuring every bite is zesty and flavorful.
Garnish and Serve
I sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley over the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette and serve chilled or at room temperature for maximum freshness.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 50g carbs, 8g protein, 12g fat, 3g fiber
Variations for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Try these twists on Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette:
- Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Nut Swap: Use almonds or pine nuts instead of pecans or walnuts.
- Cheese Swap: Replace feta with goat cheese or sharp cheddar for a new flavor.
- Vegan Option: Skip feta or use plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Fruit Boost: Add orange segments or apple slices for extra sweetness and crunch.
Storage
- I store Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, where the flavors meld beautifully.
- I avoid freezing, as the pasta and vinaigrette may lose texture.
- I serve it chilled or let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes for the freshest taste; if warming slightly, I microwave for 10–15 seconds.
Serving Ideas
Make your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette a star Zesty Pasta Delight:
- Classic: Serve as a Zesty Pasta Delight for a light lunch or side dish.
- Garnish: Add extra parsley or a sprinkle of feta for a pop of color.
- Pairing: Enjoy with iced tea, sparkling water, or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.
- Presentation: Serve in a colorful bowl to highlight the vibrant ingredients.
- Occasion: Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! If penne isn’t available, I can easily swap it for rotini, farfalle, or any other pasta shape I prefer. The key is using a pasta that can hold the vinaigrette well.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad actually gets better after a few hours as the flavors meld. I often make it ahead of time for parties or potlucks and store it in the fridge until I’m ready to serve.
Can I use bottled orange juice for the vinaigrette?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is best for the vinaigrette, as it provides a bright, natural flavor. However, if I’m in a pinch, bottled juice will work too—just make sure it’s 100% pure orange juice without added sugars or preservatives.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! This salad is completely vegetarian. For a vegan version, simply swap the feta for a plant-based cheese or leave it out entirely.
Can I freeze this salad?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables could change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.
More Summer Salad Recipes You’ll Love
- Chicken Waldorf Salad: A Fresh Summer Classic
- Best Minestrone Soup Recipe
- Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea
- Tzatziki Chicken Salad Recipe – A Fresh Summer Delight
- Thai Mango Salad: A Vibrant Summer Delight
Conclusion
This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is an easy and delicious dish that I’m always excited to make. With a mix of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for any occasion. Whether I’m serving it at a summer gathering or as a quick lunch, it’s a recipe I keep coming back to. I hope you enjoy this Zesty Pasta Delight as much as I do!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped red onion, and nuts (if using).
- In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the orange vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Switch nuts for almonds or pine nuts for a different flavor.
- Goat cheese or sharp cheddar can replace feta for variation.
- For a vegan option, substitute feta with plant-based cheese or omit it.
- Add fresh fruit like orange segments or apple slices for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Salad keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.
