Name: Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh orange juice; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste

This vibrant and refreshing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful combination of creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and a zesty orange vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a dish to bring to a potluck. The burst of flavors and textures in each bite is sure to please!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s light, yet satisfying, and packed with bright, refreshing flavors. The sweet cranberries and tangy feta cheese complement each other perfectly, while the orange vinaigrette brings it all together with a citrusy zing. The best part? It’s super easy to make and comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal dish for busy days or when I need to whip up something quick for a gathering. Whether I’m serving it at a summer picnic or enjoying it as a simple weeknight dinner, this salad always delivers!

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Orange Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup fresh orange juice

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

I start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, I drain and rinse it under cold water to cool it down.

In a large bowl, I combine the cooked pasta with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped red onion, and nuts (if I’m using them).

In a small bowl, I whisk together the fresh orange juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

I pour the orange vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss everything gently to coat it evenly.

Finally, I garnish with fresh parsley and serve the salad chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add protein: For a more substantial meal, I love adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad.

Use different nuts: Instead of pecans or walnuts, I can switch it up with almonds or pine nuts for a different texture and flavor.

Try different cheeses: If feta isn’t my favorite, goat cheese or a sharp cheddar could work beautifully in this salad.

Make it vegan: For a dairy-free version, I substitute the feta with vegan cheese or simply skip the cheese altogether.

Add fresh fruit: If I’m craving more fruity flavors, I sometimes toss in some orange segments or apple slices for extra crunch and sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

I find that this salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors continue to meld over time, making it even better the next day. If I need to reheat it, I typically do so in the microwave for a few seconds, but it’s best served chilled or at room temperature for the freshest taste.

Related Recipes:

Winter Salad with Tangy Homemade Vinaigrette

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?

Absolutely! If penne isn’t available, I can easily swap it for rotini, farfalle, or any other pasta shape I prefer. The key is using a pasta that can hold the vinaigrette well.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually gets better after a few hours as the flavors meld. I often make it ahead of time for parties or potlucks and store it in the fridge until I’m ready to serve.

Can I use bottled orange juice for the vinaigrette?

Freshly squeezed orange juice is best for the vinaigrette, as it provides a bright, natural flavor. However, if I’m in a pinch, bottled juice will work too—just make sure it’s 100% pure orange juice without added sugars or preservatives.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! This salad is completely vegetarian. For a vegan version, simply swap the feta for a plant-based cheese or leave it out entirely.

Can I freeze this salad?

I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables could change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

Conclusion

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is an easy and delicious dish that I’m always excited to make. With a mix of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for any occasion. Whether I’m serving it at a summer gathering or as a quick lunch, it’s a recipe I keep coming back to. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

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