Description
2 cups fusilli pasta, cooked and cooled
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
½ tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to create the vinaigrette.
In a large bowl, combine cooked fusilli pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts or pecans, baby spinach, and red onion.
Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for flavors to meld. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 320 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
2. While the pasta cools, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, combine 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp honey, ½ tsp Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is emulsified and slightly thickened.
3. Prepare your salad ingredients. Crumble the feta cheese, chop the walnuts, thinly slice the red onion, and roughly chop the baby spinach.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled fusilli pasta, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, chopped spinach, and sliced red onion.
5. Pour the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
6. Using two large spoons or salad tongs, gently toss the salad until every ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant pasta salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a light main course for lunch, or as a standout side dish at your next barbecue or potluck. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or flaked salmon. To make it a more substantial picnic offering, pack it alongside crusty bread, fresh fruit, and a crisp white wine.
How-to Summary
To make this Feta & Cranberry Pasta Salad, first cook and cool fusilli pasta. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the vinaigrette. In a large bowl, combine the pasta with crumbled feta, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, baby spinach, and red onion. Drizzle with the vinaigrette, toss well, and serve chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance. For best results, add the spinach and nuts just before serving to maintain their texture.
What’s a good substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese crumbles offer a similar tangy profile, or for a milder flavor, try cubed mozzarella or ricotta salata.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative, and ensure the sweetener in the dressing is maple syrup instead of honey.
My salad seems dry, what can I do?
The pasta may have absorbed the dressing. Simply whisk together an extra tablespoon of olive oil and lemon juice and toss it through the salad before serving.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Any short pasta with grooves or shapes that hold dressing well will work, such as farfalle, penne, or rotini.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding the dressing to warm pasta, as it will cause the ingredients to wilt and become soggy. Always ensure the pasta is completely cooled. Do not over-dress the salad; start with the recommended amount and add more only if needed. Using pre-crumbled feta can be drier and less flavorful than a block you crumble yourself. Finally, do not skip the step of whisking the vinaigrette vigorously—proper emulsification is key for a cohesive flavor.
Conclusion
This Feta & Cranberry Pasta Salad is a perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, all brought together by a simple, zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s quick to prepare, visually appealing, and reliably delicious for any occasion. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and customize it to your taste. Enjoy this refreshing and satisfying dish that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special.
