Description
8 oz penne pasta
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
For the Orange Vinaigrette:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tsp orange zest
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
½ tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, red onion, chopped nuts (if using), and baby spinach.
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the orange vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat.
Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve chilled or at room temperature. 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: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and immediately rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, finely dice ¼ cup of red onion. Chop 2 cups of baby spinach. If using, roughly chop ¼ cup of walnuts or pecans. Measure out ½ cup each of crumbled feta cheese and dried cranberries.
3. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small jar or bowl, combine 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh orange juice, 1 tsp orange zest, 1 tsp honey, ½ tsp Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste. Seal the jar and shake vigorously, or whisk in the bowl, until the dressing is fully emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, feta, cranberries, red onion, nuts, and spinach.
5. Dress and Rest: Pour the orange vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated. Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant pasta salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standalone light lunch or as a colorful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. For a summer picnic or potluck, it travels well in a sealed container. Garnish with extra orange zest or a few whole nuts for a beautiful presentation.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool penne pasta. Combine it with feta, cranberries, red onion, nuts, and spinach. Whisk together a simple vinaigrette of olive oil, orange juice, zest, honey, and Dijon mustard. Toss the salad with the dressing and let it rest for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the spinach just before serving to prevent wilting.
What can I use instead of feta cheese? Goat cheese or cubed fresh mozzarella (bocconcini) are excellent substitutes that pair well with the sweet and citrusy flavors.
Is there a substitute for the orange juice? Fresh lemon juice can be used, though it will change the flavor profile. Use 1.5 tbsp lemon juice and add a little more honey to balance the tartness.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Simply use your favorite gluten-free penne pasta. Ensure all other ingredients, like the Dijon mustard, are certified gluten-free.
Can I add protein to make it a main course? Absolutely. Grilled chicken breast, chickpeas, or flaked salmon are fantastic additions that turn this salad into a hearty meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will become mushy when tossed with the dressing. Always rinse it in cold water to cool it quickly. Do not skip the resting time after dressing the salad; this step is crucial for the pasta to absorb the vinaigrette. Finally, ensure your orange juice is fresh, not bottled, for the brightest flavor.
Conclusion
This Feta and Cranberry Pasta Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and adaptable to various dietary needs. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a refreshing favorite.
