Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Name: Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Isabella

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This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. It brings together the richness of feta, the sweet burst of cranberries, the crunch of walnuts, and the fresh vibrancy of spinach. The zesty lemon vinaigrette ties it all together, making it a refreshing and hearty salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it combines so many great textures and flavors in one dish. The creamy feta complements the sweetness of dried cranberries, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. The fresh spinach provides a burst of color and nutrients, and the lemon vinaigrette gives the salad a tangy zing that makes it so refreshing. Whether I’m preparing it for a family dinner, a picnic, or a quick meal, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s so simple to make—10 minutes of prep, and I’m ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

12 oz rigatoni pasta

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

2 cups fresh spinach leaves

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup olive oil

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni pasta, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and fresh spinach leaves.

Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Substitute the spinach with arugula for a peppery flavor.

Try different nuts like almonds or pecans for a unique twist.

Use goat cheese instead of feta for a different creamy flavor.

For a vegan version, swap the feta for vegan cheese or omit it altogether.

Storage/Reheating

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers, I recommend storing the vinaigrette separately and adding it just before serving to keep the salad from becoming soggy. It’s great cold, but if you prefer it at room temperature, simply let it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving.

Related Recipes:

Winter Salad with Tangy Homemade Vinaigrette

FAQs

How do I make the salad ahead of time?

To prepare this salad in advance, cook the pasta, prepare the vinaigrette, and store both separately. Combine everything just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute the rigatoni with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure the pasta is sturdy enough to hold up to the ingredients.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant for more flavor and texture.

How do I adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette?

If you like a sweeter vinaigrette, add a little more honey or maple syrup. Conversely, if you prefer a tangier flavor, reduce the amount of honey or syrup.

Conclusion

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a fresh, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The balance of creamy, tangy, sweet, and crunchy elements makes it a truly satisfying meal or side dish. I love how easy it is to prepare, and the fact that it’s so versatile means I can enjoy it in countless ways. Whether I’m making it for a casual lunch, a BBQ, or a holiday dinner, this salad is always a hit.