Name: Zesty Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad for a Refreshing Boost
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Rigatoni Pasta (Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.); 4 cups Fresh Spinach (Can swap for arugula or mixed greens.); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Halved; diced bell peppers can add crunch.); 1 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese (Can be substituted with goat cheese or mozzarella.); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries (Consider raisins or chopped apricots for variety.); 1/2 medium Red Onion (Finely diced; use green onions for a milder taste.); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Avocado oil can be an alternative.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed; lime juice can provide a twist.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Yellow mustard can work if Dijon is unavailable.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can intensify the flavor.); 1 pinch Salt; 1 pinch Pepper

Under the golden sun of summer afternoons, the thought of a quick, refreshing bite always brings a smile to my face. That’s where my Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette enters the scene. Bursting with delightful combinations of creamy feta and sweet cranberries, this salad is not only a visual feast but also a breeze to prepare. In just 15 minutes, you can have a light meal ready that’s perfect for both busy days and leisurely gatherings—it’s a versatile dish that shines as a main course or vibrant side. Plus, with customizable ingredients, you can make it your own—think gluten-free pasta, a mix of greens, or even a sprinkle of nuts for crunch. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s dive in!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can serve up this delicious salad without the fuss.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy feta and sweet cranberries paired with zesty lemon dressing creates a symphony of flavors that delights your palate.

Customizable Goodness: Whether you prefer gluten-free pasta or an extra crunch from nuts, you can easily alter this dish to suit your cravings!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer picnic or a quick lunch, this salad is versatile enough to shine both as a main dish and a colorful side.

Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fresh ingredients and around 320 calories per serving, this salad is as wholesome as it is satisfying. It’s a great way to stay light and energized!

Looking for more refreshing ideas? Try this Lemon Feta Pasta for a twist or check out my Roll Cucumber Salad for a unique side!

Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Ingredients

• Whip up this delightful Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with these fresh ingredients!

For the Salad

Rigatoni Pasta – A hearty base that provides structure; substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
Fresh Spinach – Adds vibrant color and essential nutrients; swap for arugula or mixed greens for a peppery twist.
Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, they elevate the freshness; diced bell peppers can add a satisfying crunch if you prefer.
Crumbled Feta Cheese – Creamy and tangy, the star of this dish; goat cheese or mozzarella can create a milder flavor.
Dried Cranberries – Provide a sweet, chewy contrast; consider raisins or chopped apricots for a different profile.
Red Onion – Sharp and crunchy, bringing zest to the mix; use green onions or shallots for a milder taste.

For the Lemon Vinaigrette

Olive Oil – A rich base for the dressing, enhancing flavor; avocado oil can be a delightful alternative.
Lemon Juice – Offers bright acidity that ties the salad together; lime juice can introduce a refreshing twist.
Dijon Mustard – Thickens the dressing with a tangy kick; yellow mustard works nicely if you’re out of Dijon.
Garlic Powder – Infuses savory depth; fresh minced garlic will give a stronger flavor if you want to intensify the taste.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re set to create a meal that’s as refreshing as it is delightful!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Step 1: Cook Rigatoni
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and then drain the pasta in a colander.

Step 2: Cool the Pasta
Once the rigatoni is drained, rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. This step is important to prevent overcooking and to ensure the salad remains fresh. After rinsing, allow the pasta to drain thoroughly for a couple of minutes to remove excess moisture, then set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni, chopped fresh spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, and finely diced red onion. This combination forms the vibrant base of your Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. Toss gently to mix the ingredients together, ensuring an even distribution of colors and flavors.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and emulsified, bringing together all the zesty flavors. This vinaigrette will add depth and brightness to your salad, so make sure it’s well combined.

Step 5: Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Using a spatula or tongs, gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to break up the feta cheese too much to maintain its creamy texture throughout the Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, give it a good toss and enjoy the refreshing taste and vibrant colors of your Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad!

Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Variations

Feel inspired to put your own twist on this delightful salad and make it uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular rigatoni with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences without losing the deliciousness.
Boosted Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an added protein punch, transforming this salad into a heartier meal.
Extra Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch; they elevate the texture and add a nutty flavor.
Cheese Swap: If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or mozzarella provides a creamy alternative that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Zesty Twist: Replace lemon juice with lime juice in the vinaigrette for a refreshing twist that brightens up each bite.
Veggie Add-Ins: Add colorful veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for an extra touch of nutrition and flavor.
Fruity Variation: Use fresh blueberries or sliced strawberries instead of dried cranberries for a juicy, sweet contrast that enhances the salad’s freshness.

Looking for more salad inspiration? Try creating a zesty Cheeseburger Salad Sauce for a different take, or enjoy my vibrant Roll Cucumber Salad for a lovely side dish interlude!

What to Serve with Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Imagine a delicious spread designed to complement the vibrant flavors of your simple yet satisfying salad!

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken perfectly contrasts the freshness of the salad, adding protein and heartiness for a complete meal.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery bread provides a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy feta and the refreshing salad. It’s a delightful, indulgent side!
Mediterranean Quinoa: This nutty, wholesome dish with herbs mirrors the Mediterranean theme, enhancing your meal’s flavor while adding texture and nutrition.
Roasted Vegetables: Slightly sweet and caramelized, roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers introduce depth, fulfilling your need for vibrant, seasonal ingredients.
Cucumber Mint Cooler: A refreshing drink pairing, this icy beverage enhances the zesty lemon notes of the salad, creating a harmonious summer vibe.
Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light frozen treat like lemon or raspberry sorbet adds a refreshing ending that cleanses the palate after the savory salad.
Caprese Skewers: Juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a vibrant starter that excites the taste buds before diving into the salad.
Chickpea Salad: Adding a flavor-packed, protein-rich chickpea salad provides an extra layer of heartiness, making your meal even more satisfying!
Sparkling Water: This light, bubbly drink keeps it refreshing and palette-cleansing while complementing each element of your meal beautifully!

Expert Tips for Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Chill for Flavor: Allow your salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the flavors, making your Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad even more delicious!

Mind the Pasta: Don’t overcook the rigatoni! Aim for al dente to ensure the pasta holds its shape and provides the perfect bite.

Customize Wisely: Be open to substitutions, but remember that changing key ingredients, like feta cheese, can significantly alter the flavor profile of your Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad.

Gentle Tossing: When mixing, gently toss the salad. This helps maintain the creamy integrity of the feta, ensuring it doesn’t crumble too much.

Prep Ahead: Consider preparing the dressing in advance and storing it separately until you’re ready to serve. This keeps the salad fresh and prevents sogginess.

Make Ahead Options

Busy home cooks will love that the Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad can be prepped ahead of time for a stress-free meal option! You can cook the rigatoni and prepare the lemon vinaigrette up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the pasta and dressing separately. The veggies, such as spinach and tomatoes, can also be chopped a day ahead and stored in airtight containers to keep them fresh and crisp. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply combine everything and toss it with the vinaigrette. This approach not only saves you time but ensures your Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is just as delicious with flavors that meld beautifully overnight!

How to Store and Freeze Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the salad, drizzle a bit of extra olive oil or lemon juice before serving.

Freezer: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of fresh vegetables may change.

Reheating: If you’ve frozen the salad, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Although this Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is typically enjoyed cold, you can gently reheat the pasta in a pan over low heat if you prefer a warm dish.

Tip: For optimal flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume the salad fresh rather than freezing.

Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best taste, select cherry tomatoes that are vibrant and firm, indicating ripeness. They should have a sweet aroma and a shiny skin. For spinach, look for bright green leaves without yellowing or wilting. Fresh feta should be creamy and slightly crumbly, while cranberries should be plump and not too hard.

How should I store leftovers of the Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad?
Very! Place your leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To keep flavors bright, consider adding a little extra olive oil or lemon juice just before serving to refresh the salad.

Can I freeze the Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad?
Yes, you can! If you need to freeze it, transfer the salad to a freezer-safe container. It will hold up well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember that the texture of fresh vegetables may change once thawed, so I recommend enjoying it fresh whenever possible.

What if the pasta is overcooked?
No worries! If you happen to overcook the rigatoni, it can become mushy. For next time, cook the pasta until it’s just al dente, meaning it should have a slight bite. If you’re facing a mushy situation, consider repurposing the salad by adding a bit more crunchy veggies or even blending it into a warm pasta dish with added toppings.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is quite versatile. For a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free pasta. Be cautious with feta if you have a dairy allergy; you can substitute it with a dairy-free cheese option or leave it out entirely. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens and adjust based on your dietary needs.

How can I add more protein to this salad?
Great question! To boost the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Each adds a delightful crunch and elevates the nutritional value, making it a more satisfying meal.