Name: Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Refreshing Lemon Vinaigrette
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Rigatoni Pasta (Substitute with penne or farfalle as desired.); 1 cup Feta Cheese (Can substitute with goat cheese or ricotta.); 1 cup Dried Cranberries (Dried cherries can be used instead.); 1/2 cup Red Onion (Can substitute with green onions.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Other herbs like basil could be used.); 1/3 cup Olive Oil (Avocado oil may be used as an alternative.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Lime juice can also be used.); 1 tablespoon Honey (Maple syrup can be a vegan substitute.); 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (Yellow mustard could work in a pinch.); to taste Salt & Black Pepper (Adjust according to taste.)

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Amidst the vibrant colors of summer picnics, my Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette shines like a culinary gem on the table. The luscious combination of creamy feta and sweet cranberries is perfectly tied together by a zesty vinaigrette that dances on your taste buds. This salad truly encapsulates everything I love about light meals; it’s quick to prepare and a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re looking for something refreshing to accompany your weekend BBQ or a delightful lunch that keeps well in the fridge, this dish has you covered. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be made with gluten-free pasta if needed! Are you ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Freshness at its finest: This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad bursts with vibrant flavors, making it the ultimate refreshing dish for summer.

Quick to prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Versatile ingredients: Swap in gluten-free pasta or add your favorite protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

Crowd-friendly: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s the ideal side dish for BBQs or potlucks. Check out my Peach Salad Summer for another crowd-pleaser!

Storage wins: It tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option for lunches or snacks.

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Ingredients

• For the Salad

Rigatoni Pasta – Provides structure and hearty texture; substitute with penne or farfalle as desired.
Feta Cheese – Creamy and tangy, it adds savory richness; alternatives include goat cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor.
Dried Cranberries – Offer a chewy texture and sweet contrasts; consider using dried cherries instead of fresh cranberries as they are too tart.
Red Onion – Adds sharpness and crunch; can be substituted with green onions for a milder taste.
Fresh Parsley – Brings freshness and color; other herbs like basil could be used for variation.

• For the Lemon Vinaigrette

Olive Oil – Base for the vinaigrette, providing richness; avocado oil may be used as an alternative.
Lemon Juice – Adds bright acidity, essential for balancing flavors; for a twist, lime juice can be used.
Honey – Gently sweetens the dressing; maple syrup can serve as a substitute for a vegan option.
Dijon Mustard – Incorporates a tangy depth to the vinaigrette; yellow mustard could work in a pinch.
Salt & Black Pepper – Required for seasoning; adjust to taste for the most flavorful Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender but still have a firm bite when done. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander.

Step 2: Cool the Pasta
Immediately rinse the drained rigatoni under cold water in the colander to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. Once cooled, shake off excess water and transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients
To the bowl, add the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and finely chopped red onion. Gently toss the ingredients together with a spatula to ensure an even distribution. You’ll want the creamy feta and sweet cranberries nestled among the pasta for balanced flavor in your delicious salad.

Step 4: Add Fresh Parsley
Next, chop a handful of fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the rigatoni mixture. This will not only enhance the colors but also infuse freshness into the salad. Use your spatula to fold the parsley in gently, ensuring that every bite of your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad gets a burst of herbaceous flavor.

Step 5: Whisk the Lemon Vinaigrette
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk until the vinaigrette is emulsified and creamy. The brightness of the lemon combined with the sweetness of the honey creates a perfect balance for drizzling over the salad.

Step 6: Drizzle and Toss
Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad mixture and gently toss using the spatula until all the ingredients are coated in the dressing. The tangy citrus will complement the creamy feta and sweet cranberries beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor of your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Take a moment to taste your salad and decide if it needs any additional seasoning. Feel free to adjust the levels of salt, pepper, or even a splash more lemon juice to suit your personal preference. This step ensures that your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is perfectly balanced and delicious.

Step 8: Serve or Chill
You can serve the salad immediately for a refreshing dish, or for optimal flavor melding, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. The flavors will deepen and meld as it rests, making this colorful salad even more delightful for your next gathering or dinner!

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and turns, adding your personal touch to the recipe!

Gluten-Free: Substitute rigatoni with gluten-free pasta for a friendly alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp to transform the salad into a heartier main dish that satisfies.
Nuts for Crunch: Toss in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds to add an irresistible crunch that contrasts with the creamy feta.
Herb Swaps: Replace parsley with fresh basil or mint for a unique herbal twist that brightens each bite.
Sweet Twist: Use honey-roasted nuts instead of plain nuts to introduce a sweet and savory dimension to the salad.
Heat It Up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Dried Fruit Variety: Swap cranberries for dried apricots or cherries to bring new sweetness and texture into the mix.
Zesty Citrus: Experiment with lime juice instead of lemon for a tangy twist in the dressing that surprises and delights the palate.

With these variations, your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette can shine in endlessly creative ways. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my delicious Cucumber Feta Salad or take a look at my Beet Burrata Salad with Pine Nuts for a refreshing contrast!

How to Store and Freeze Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This salad actually improves in flavor as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep!

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and feta may be compromised upon thawing. Enjoy fresh for the best taste experience.

Serving Tip: When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute flavors. You can also add a splash of fresh lemon juice to revive the zesty notes before serving!

Make-Ahead: Prepare the salad a day in advance, keeping the vinaigrette separate until just before serving to maintain its freshness.

Expert Tips

Rinse the Pasta: Always rinse the rigatoni under cold water to stop the cooking process and maintain the desired texture in your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.
Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or mint to bring unique flavors to your salad while preserving its freshness.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste your salad before serving to ensure the right balance of flavors; adjust the sweetness and acidity of the dressing as needed.
Let It Chill: If time allows, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Serve It Warm Too: This salad can also be enjoyed warm if you prefer—a quick toss in a pan to warm the pasta can create a wonderfully different experience!

What to Serve with Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad?

Imagine a delightful summer gathering where your dish stands out, bringing joy and flavor to the table. This salad pairs beautifully with both light and hearty accompaniments, making it perfect for any occasion.

Grilled Chicken: Adds a lean protein that complements the salad’s creaminess, creating a satisfying meal.
Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned and grilled, they offer a touch of elegance and a seafood twist.
Crispy Garlic Bread: Perfect for cutting through the tangy flavors; the crunch elevates every bite.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, they provide a sweet, earthy balance with a bit of texture.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Refreshing and light, this side enhances the salad’s vibrant flavors and adds another layer of crunch.
White Sangria: A fruity, refreshing drink that elevates the whole meal with its brightness.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and refreshing treat echoes the zesty flavors while providing a cool finish to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette are perfect for busy meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salad components—like cooking the rigatoni, chopping the vegetables, and crumbling the feta—up to 24 hours in advance. Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain the texture. The lemon vinaigrette should also be mixed and stored separately for optimal freshness, as it can last up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the salad ingredients with the vinaigrette and give it a gentle toss. This way, you’ll enjoy a fresh, delicious salad with minimal last-minute effort, making your meal planning a breeze!

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs

How should I choose the right ripeness of feta cheese?
Absolutely! Look for feta that is creamy and crumbly with a bright white color. Avoid any varieties that appear overly dry or have dark spots, as this indicates spoilage. If you’re uncertain, taste a small piece to ensure it has a tangy, pleasing flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad?
I recommend storing your leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together nicely. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the ingredients!

Can I freeze Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as it may compromise the texture of the pasta and feta upon thawing. Instead, enjoy it fresh for the best taste experience. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, consider making it a day before and store the dressing separately until ready to serve.

What if my pasta ends up too soft?
Very! If your pasta turns out too soft, you can prevent this by rinsing it under cold water immediately after draining, which halts the cooking process. For future cooking, ensure you follow the package instructions for al dente correctly, and don’t skip the boiling step!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting regular rigatoni with a gluten-free pasta alternative. Additionally, if you’re accommodating nut allergies, feel free to skip any nuts added for crunch. Always double-check ingredient labels to make sure they meet your dietary needs.

Can I add more ingredients to the salad?
Absolutely! This salad is incredibly versatile. You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost or incorporate nuts like slivered almonds for extra texture. Just remember to adjust your dressing accordingly to maintain the flavor balance!