Description
For the Salad:
12 oz penne pasta, cooked and cooled
½ cup ricotta cheese
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
½ cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Orange Vinaigrette:
¼ cup fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the vinaigrette.
In a large bowl, combine cooked penne, ricotta, cranberries, toasted walnuts, baby spinach, and red onion.
Pour the orange vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
2. Toast the Walnuts: While the pasta cooks, place the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove immediately to prevent burning.
3. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, zest and juice the orange. Whisk the fresh juice and zest with the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne, ricotta, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, chopped spinach, and sliced red onion.
5. Combine and Rest: Pour the vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every component is coated. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant pasta salad is versatile. Serve it as a hearty main dish for a light lunch, or as a standout side at barbecues and potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, or simple lemon-herb shrimp. For a fresh presentation, serve on a bed of extra baby spinach or arugula.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool penne pasta. Whisk together orange juice, zest, oil, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper for the vinaigrette. In a large bowl, combine pasta with ricotta, cranberries, toasted walnuts, spinach, and red onion. Toss with the dressing and chill before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, it’s excellent for making ahead. Prepare and combine all ingredients, but store the dressing separately. Toss together 30 minutes to an hour before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.
What can I substitute for ricotta? Fresh goat cheese (chèvre) or feta cheese crumbles are excellent substitutes that will add a tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try mashed avocado.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, though the spinach may wilt slightly.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Farfalle (bow-tie), fusilli, or rotini work well as they hold the dressing and add-ins nicely. Ensure any pasta used is cooked al dente.
Is there a substitute for the honey in the vinaigrette? Maple syrup or agave nectar are perfect vegan-friendly substitutes that will provide a similar sweetness to balance the citrus.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using warm pasta, as it will melt the ricotta and wilt the spinach. Always cool it completely. Do not skip toasting the walnuts; this step is crucial for deepening their flavor and adding crunch. Finally, do not overdress the salad. Start with 3/4 of the vinaigrette, toss, and add more only if needed to prevent a soggy result.
Conclusion
This Penne Pasta Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a perfect harmony of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet delivers a sophisticated taste that’s ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a consistently delicious dish. Enjoy this refreshing twist on a classic pasta salad.
