Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and textures. This pasta salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a BBQ, or simply in need of a light lunch. The combination of savory feta cheese, sweet cranberries, and a refreshing lemon vinaigrette makes this salad stand out as a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This rigatoni salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Bursting with Flavor: The mix of feta and cranberries provides a delicious contrast between salty and sweet, while the lemon vinaigrette adds a zesty kick.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether served as a main dish or as a side at potlucks and parties, this salad fits seamlessly into any menu.
- Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with nutrients, this recipe offers a wholesome option without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own!
Tools and Preparation
To make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help you prepare the ingredients efficiently and ensure your salad comes out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta evenly and ensuring it doesn’t stick together.
- Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly without losing any pieces.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all the ingredients without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta using a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool. Set aside to drain completely.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk together until the vinaigrette is emulsified and smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni pasta with crumbled feta, dried cranberries, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor melding.
Enjoy your delicious Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette!
How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick lunch, here are some creative serving suggestions.
As a Standalone Lunch
- This salad makes for a refreshing and filling meal on its own. Serve it chilled for an invigorating lunch option.
At BBQs and Picnics
- Bring this rigatoni salad to your next BBQ or picnic. Its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation will surely impress your guests.
As a Side Dish
- Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish. The tangy lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of grilled proteins perfectly.
With Extra Greens
- Add a bed of mixed greens underneath the salad for added texture and nutrition. This gives a nice crunch and enhances the overall presentation.
In Meal Prep Containers
- Prepare individual servings in meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. This keeps everything fresh and ready to enjoy.
How to Perfect Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
To elevate your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make all the difference in taste. Opt for garden-fresh produce when available.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! You may need more salt or pepper based on personal preference, so don’t hesitate to adjust accordingly.
Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for about 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive taste.
Customize Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts or olives for extra crunch and flavor. Almonds or walnuts can bring a delightful twist.
Make It Ahead: Prepare your salad a day in advance. The flavors intensify overnight, making it even more delicious when served the next day.
Best Side Dishes for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This pasta salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some fantastic options:
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and smoky flavor that balances the tanginess of the salad.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides a comforting contrast to the refreshing salad, perfect for soaking up any leftover vinaigrette.
Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables offer an earthy flavor profile that goes well with the bright notes of the rigatoni salad.
Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes harmonizes beautifully with the Mediterranean flair of your pasta dish.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs can serve as a nutritious companion while adding another layer of texture to your meal.
Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad brings balance to your meal, enhancing the overall freshness and providing a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the pasta cooling step – Not rinsing the pasta can lead to a mushy salad. Always cool the rigatoni under cold water before mixing.
- Overdressing the salad – Too much vinaigrette can overpower the flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for balance.
- Using stale ingredients – Using old feta or dried cranberries affects taste. Ensure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
- Not seasoning adequately – A lack of salt and pepper can dull the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving for optimal taste.
- Ignoring chill time – Skipping chilling before serving can result in less flavor. Letting it sit for 30 minutes enhances all the delicious tastes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- This salad is not recommended for freezing as it may alter texture and taste.
Reheating Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place in a baking dish, and warm for about 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short bursts (30 seconds) until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Heat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally; add a splash of olive oil if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute rigatoni with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or fusilli.
How long does Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad last?
The salad lasts up to three days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken or chickpeas can make this dish heartier and more filling.
What variations can I try?
You can customize this salad by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or swapping out cranberries for raisins or cherries.
Final Thoughts
Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors perfectly. Its versatility makes it ideal for various occasions—whether it’s lunch, a picnic, or a BBQ side dish. Feel free to customize it with different veggies or proteins to suit your taste!
Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the salty tang of feta cheese with the sweetness of dried cranberries, all brought together by a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for summer picnics, casual gatherings, or as a light lunch, this pasta salad not only bursts with flavor but also offers a satisfying texture. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup diced cucumber
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente (about 10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper for the vinaigrette.
- 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with feta, cranberries, cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle vinaigrette over the mixture and toss gently.
- 4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Chill for 30 minutes to enhance flavors if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling/Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. Customize the salad with nuts or different veggies according to your preference. For the best taste, use fresh ingredients whenever possible.
