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Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Refreshing Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad for Bright Days

A vibrant Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad that combines creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and zesty lemon vinaigrette, perfect for light meals and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Greens
  • 8 oz Rigatoni Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach Swap for arugula or mixed greens for a different flavor.
For the Salad Mix
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Use diced bell peppers for a crunchier texture if desired.
  • 1 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese Can be substituted with goat cheese or mozzarella.
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Substitute with raisins or chopped apricots for different flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Use green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Lime juice can be used for a different citrus kick.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard Use yellow mustard if Dijon isn’t available.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • tongs

Method
 

Cooking and Assembly Steps
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the rigatoni pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni with chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and sliced red onion. Fold ingredients gently.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until creamy.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are coated.
  5. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  6. Serve the Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad as a light main dish or a side. Add extra feta or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chilling the salad enhances flavors, and be gentle when mixing to maintain feta chunks. Customize with various vegetables or proteins for personal preferences.

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