Introduction to Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know how hectic life can get. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up a delicious meal can feel like a challenge. That’s where my Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette comes in! This vibrant salad is not only a quick solution for a busy day, but it also impresses your loved ones with its fresh flavors. Trust me, this dish will brighten your table and your mood!
Why You’ll Love This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The combination of tangy feta, sweet cranberries, and zesty orange vinaigrette creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, making it a must-try!
Ingredients for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delightful Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Penne pasta: This sturdy pasta holds the dressing and ingredients beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Dried cranberries: These little gems bring a burst of sweetness and a chewy texture, balancing the dish.
- Red onion: Finely chopped, it adds a sharp bite that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Walnuts: Chopped walnuts provide a delightful crunch and a nutty richness that rounds out the salad.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish.
- Olive oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for the vinaigrette, adding richness and depth.
- Orange juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brings a zesty sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
- Apple cider vinegar: This adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the cranberries and orange juice.
- Honey: A touch of honey enhances the sweetness and helps to emulsify the vinaigrette.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients elevate the flavors of the salad.
For those looking for alternatives, you can substitute feta cheese with a plant-based option for a vegan twist. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch. If you want to make this salad ahead of time, it can be prepared a day in advance. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find them available for printing!
How to Make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a vibrant dish that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, add the penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and let it cool. Cooling is crucial; it prevents the salad from becoming mushy later on.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, finely chopped red onion, chopped walnuts, and fresh parsley. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor and texture, creating a beautiful medley. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated with the other ingredients. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Prepare the Orange Vinaigrette
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed orange juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. This vinaigrette is the star of the show! The olive oil adds richness, while the orange juice brings a zesty sweetness. Whisk until everything is well combined and slightly emulsified. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed; it should be a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
Now, pour the orange vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to break the feta too much; you want those lovely chunks to remain intact. This step is where the flavors truly come together, creating a delicious harmony!
Step 5: Serve or Chill
Your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is almost ready! You can serve it immediately for a fresh, vibrant dish. However, if you have a little patience, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delightful. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Tips for Success
- Always salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor of the penne.
- Let the pasta cool completely before mixing to avoid sogginess.
- Use fresh orange juice for the vinaigrette; it makes a world of difference.
- Adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette by adding more or less honey.
- Feel free to experiment with herbs like basil or mint for a twist!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta. A deep saucepan works too.
- Colander: To drain the pasta. A fine mesh strainer can be a good substitute.
- Mixing bowl: For combining ingredients. Any large bowl will do.
- Whisk: To mix the vinaigrette. A fork can work in a pinch!
Variations of Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
- Grilled Chicken: Add sliced grilled chicken for a protein boost, making it a heartier meal.
- Quinoa Substitute: Swap out penne pasta for quinoa for a gluten-free option that’s just as delicious.
- Spinach Addition: Toss in fresh spinach or arugula for an extra layer of greens and nutrition.
- Avocado: Add diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats that elevate the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Serving Suggestions for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside crusty bread or garlic knots for a satisfying crunch.
- Complement with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Garnish with extra parsley or orange zest for a pop of color.
- Present in a large bowl for a family-style serving that invites sharing!
FAQs about Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette can be made a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can use a plant-based feta alternative. It still provides that creamy texture and tangy flavor!
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a good toss before serving again!
Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor. The more, the merrier!
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make this salad gluten-free, simply swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free pasta option. It will still be delicious!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is more than just a cooking task; it’s a joyful experience that brings a burst of color and flavor to your table. Each bite is a delightful dance of sweet and tangy, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a quick lunch, this salad is sure to impress. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking, and may your meals always be filled with love and laughter!
Print
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Awaits!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant salad featuring penne pasta, feta cheese, cranberries, and a zesty orange vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta, feta cheese, cranberries, red onion, walnuts, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute feta cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- This salad can be made a day in advance for convenience.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
