Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette: Try This!

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Introduction to Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Hey there, fellow busy moms and professionals! If you’re anything like me, a refreshing yet simple dish can be a lifesaver during the hectic week. That’s why I can’t wait to share my recipe for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette. This vibrant salad combines the delightful tang of feta cheese with sweet dried cranberries, all tossed in a zesty orange vinaigrette. Perfect as a quick lunch, a side dish, or a light dinner, this salad brings joy to every meal and makes mealtime a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a true gem for busy lives. It comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when time slips away. The vibrant flavors are as delightful as they are comforting, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it warm or chilled. Trust me, your taste buds and your schedule will thank you!

Ingredients for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Let’s dive into the vibrant ingredients that make this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad sing. Each component plays a delicious role, and you can find exact measurements at the bottom of the article for easy printing!

• Penne Pasta: The star of the show! Opt for whole wheat for added fiber.
• Feta Cheese: This crumble adds a salty, creamy bite. I adore using a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
• Dried Cranberries: Their natural sweetness complements the tangy feta beautifully. Fresh berries can be swapped in if you prefer!
• Toasted Walnuts: These provide a delightful crunch and healthy fats. You can use almonds or pecans as a tasty alternative.
• Baby Spinach: A handful of greens not only boosts nutrition but also adds lovely color. Kale or arugula work well too!
• Red Onion: These thin slices bring a mild zing. For a sweeter touch, consider using green onions instead.
• Fresh Orange Juice: The base of our vinaigrette, it brightens up the salad with a refreshing citrus note.
• Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps marry all the flavors together. A good quality extra virgin olive oil is worth it!
• Honey: A touch of sweetness balances the acidity of the vinaigrette. Feel free to swap it for maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Dijon Mustard: This little hit of spice enhances the vinaigrette’s flavor profile. Yellow mustard can work too, in a pinch!
• Salt and Black Pepper: These essential seasonings help elevate every bite. Adjust to your taste preference.

These simple yet effective ingredients come together to create a cheerful dish, making it the perfect choice for any meal! Now, let’s explore how to whip up this delicious salad in no time.

How to Make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Let’s roll up our sleeves and create this colorful Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette together! Trust me; it’s easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying this delightful dish in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, add the penne pasta. I usually cook it for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is al dente—firm but not crunchy. No one likes mushy pasta! When it’s ready, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside; we’re almost there!

Step 2: Make the Orange Vinaigrette

Now, let’s whip up that tangy orange vinaigrette! In a small bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Grab a whisk and blend it until all the ingredients dance together. This vinaigrette is like the cherry on top—smooth, zesty, and oh-so-tasty! Don’t be shy; give it a good shake and taste it. Adjust the seasoning if needed; you want that perfect zing!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Time to bring our salad to life! In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, baby spinach, and thinly sliced red onion. Each ingredient adds its own personality, creating a harmonious flavor party. Give it a gentle stir to ensure everything is mingling nicely—nothing worse than a boring salad, right?

Step 4: Dress & Toss

Here comes the fun part! Drizzle that delicious orange vinaigrette all over the salad. Now, using your hands or a large spoon, toss everything gently to coat. Think of it as giving your salad a refreshing bath! You want every piece to glisten with that fantastic dressing. A well-dressed salad is always more enticing!

Tips for Success

• Cook pasta in plenty of salted water for better flavor.
• Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and cool down for the salad.
• Taste the vinaigrette before dressing the salad; adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
• Add ingredients like nuts or veggies just before serving for a crunchy texture.
• For extra flair, garnish with orange slices or fresh herbs.

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: Essential for cooking the pasta. A Dutch oven works well, too.
• Colander: For draining the pasta. A slotted spoon can be a handy substitute.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to combine all the ingredients. A salad bowl is perfect!
• Whisk: To mix the vinaigrette smoothly. A fork can do the job in a pinch.

Variations

• Grilled Chicken: Add strips of grilled chicken for a protein boost and a fulfilling meal option.
• Quinoa Swap: Replace penne pasta with quinoa for a gluten-free alternative packed with nutrients.
• Roasted Veggies: Toss in roasted bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan feta or skip the cheese entirely and enhance flavors with nutritional yeast.
• Fruit Add-ins: Consider adding diced apples or pears for an added crunch and sweetness.

Serving Suggestions for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside crusty bread or a light baguette for added texture.
• Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.
• Garnish with fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, for a pop of color.
• Present in a bright, colorful bowl to enhance its visual appeal!

FAQs about Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! Preparing the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge and dress it just before serving for best results.

How long does this salad last in the fridge? Typically, it can last about 3 days in a sealed container. However, for freshest flavors, I recommend consuming it within 1-2 days. The greens will begin to wilt after a day or so.

Can I use other types of cheese? Definitely! If feta isn’t your favorite, consider using goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella. Each cheese will lend a different but delightful flavor to your salad.

What can I serve with this salad? The Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or a simple soup. It’s versatile enough to complement various mains or stand alone as a light, refreshing meal.

Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet? Yes! You can easily make this salad gluten-free by swapping out the penne pasta for gluten-free pasta or even quinoa, keeping all the fabulous flavors intact!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette always brings me a sense of joy. It’s a fusion of colors, flavors, and textures that remind me of carefree summer days. Each bite is a celebration of freshness and a delightful escape from daily chaos.

This recipe embodies simplicity without sacrificing taste, making it ideal for busy evenings. Whether you share it with family or indulge on your own, I promise you’ll feel uplifted. So grab those ingredients, get cooking, and let the joy of fresh, vibrant food brighten your day!

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