Description
For the Salad:
12 oz penne pasta, cooked and cooled
½ cup goat cheese, crumbled
¼ cup dried cranberries
½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
2 cups arugula or spinach, chopped
For the Honey Balsamic Dressing:
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
¼ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, goat cheese, cranberries, walnuts, red onion, and arugula (or spinach).
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
- Toast the Walnuts: While the pasta cooks, place ½ cup of walnut pieces in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat, let cool, and chop roughly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, ¼ cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta, ½ cup crumbled goat cheese, ¼ cup dried cranberries, the toasted walnuts, ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion, and 2 cups chopped arugula or spinach.
- Combine and Rest: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad can be adapted for any occasion. For a light lunch, serve it in a large bowl with a side of crusty bread. It makes an excellent main dish for summer picnics or potlucks. To turn it into a more substantial dinner, consider adding grilled chicken breast, flaked salmon, or chickpeas for extra protein. Present it on a bed of fresh greens for an elegant touch at a dinner party.
How-to Summary
Quickly cook and cool penne pasta. Toast walnuts for enhanced flavor. Whisk together a simple honey balsamic dressing. Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl, toss with the dressing, and chill before serving for the best flavor meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance. For the best texture, add the arugula and walnuts just before serving to keep them crisp.
What can I use instead of goat cheese?
Feta cheese or creamy blue cheese are excellent substitutes that pair well with the sweet and tangy flavors.
Is there a substitute for honey in the dressing?
Absolutely. Maple syrup or agave nectar will provide a similar sweetness and are perfect for a vegan version.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb more dressing, so you might want to refresh it with a small drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar before serving again.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Certainly. Farfalle (bow-tie), fusilli, or any other short pasta with good texture for holding the dressing will work well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Mushy pasta will ruin the salad’s texture. Always cook to al dente and cool it completely.
- Skipping the Toasting Step: Toasting the walnuts is crucial. It deepens their flavor and adds a necessary crunch.
- Not Emulsifying the Dressing: Whisk the dressing vigorously until fully combined. A separated dressing won’t coat the ingredients evenly.
- Serving Immediately: While you can serve it right away, allowing the salad to chill for 30 minutes lets the flavors combine beautifully.
Conclusion
This Penne Pasta Salad with goat cheese, cranberries, and a honey balsamic dressing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It masterfully balances sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements in every bite. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and create a stunning dish perfect for any meal. Its simplicity, make-ahead potential, and vibrant flavors make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
