Are you searching for a refreshing and satisfying dish to enliven your mealtime? Look no further than this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette. This delightful salad combines the nutty flavor of whole grain penne pasta with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese, sweet bursts of dried cranberries, and a zesty orange vinaigrette that ties it all together. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a potluck gathering, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients that will keep you energized throughout the day. refreshing cucumber salad In just 30 minutes or less, you can whip up a vibrant dish that appeals to both the eyes and the palate. With its balance of flavors, textures, and colors, this salad is bound to impress your family and friends while satisfying your taste buds. So grab your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks hearty lentil taco chili.
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Penne Pasta: Use whole grain penne for added fiber; cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness and chewy texture; opt for unsweetened varieties if preferred.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides a creamy contrast; choose high-quality feta for the best flavor.
- Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach adds freshness and nutrients; rinse thoroughly before use to remove any grit.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice enhances the vinaigrette’s flavor; avoid bottled juice when possible.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil works best in dressings for its rich flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed orange juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will serve as your flavorful dressing.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta with dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh spinach leaves.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the orange vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated in dressing.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
For optimal flavor integration, cover the salad and refrigerate it for about 15 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to plates or a serving bowl. Garnish with additional feta or cranberries if desired for an appealing presentation.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh produce for optimal flavor; wilted greens can detract from your salad’s appeal.
- Toss Just Before Serving: To maintain texture, toss the salad again just before serving if it has been chilled.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas as protein options.
How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the penne pasta and vinaigrette in advance. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes. Allow it to cool before mixing in other ingredients. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Storing: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Be sure to keep any dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, as this helps maintain texture and flavor.
- Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a saucepan over low heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water if necessary. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pasta mushy. Serve cold after reheating for best results, as this salad is best enjoyed chilled.
Suggestions for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette :
Avoid Overcooking the Pasta
One common mistake when preparing Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is overcooking the penne. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and loses its appealing texture. To avoid this, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite. After cooking, promptly drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help maintain a pleasant texture and ensure that your salad doesn’t turn soggy. For more inspiration, check out this corn pasta salad recipe recipe.
Choose Fresh Ingredients
Using stale or low-quality ingredients can significantly affect the flavor of your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette. Always opt for fresh vegetables, ripe cranberries, and high-quality feta cheese. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and nutrition of your salad. If possible, buy seasonal produce as it tends to be more flavorful. Additionally, selecting a good quality olive oil for your vinaigrette will elevate the dish’s flavor profile, making it more enjoyable. For more inspiration, check out this sweet potato salad recipe.
Balance Flavors Correctly
Another mistake to avoid is neglecting to balance flavors in your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette. The sweetness of cranberries should complement the saltiness of feta cheese. Ensure you taste your vinaigrette before adding it to the salad. Adjust seasoning by adding more citrus juice or olive oil if needed. A well-balanced dressing enhances each ingredient’s natural flavors, resulting in a more harmonious dish.
Proper Storage Techniques
After preparing your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, improper storage can lead to spoilage or degraded taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume them within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. If you anticipate leftovers, consider storing the vinaigrette separately. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much dressing and becoming soggy.
FAQs :
What can I substitute for feta cheese in this salad?
If you’re looking for a substitute for feta cheese in your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, consider using goat cheese or ricotta salata as alternatives. Goat cheese offers a creamy texture similar to feta but has a milder flavor profile. Ricotta salata is firmer than regular ricotta and has a slightly salty flavor that complements salads well. For those avoiding dairy completely, try using tofu feta or even marinated olives to add that desired salty kick without dairy.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette ahead of time! It’s an ideal dish for meal prep or gatherings since it tastes great even when chilled or at room temperature. To maintain freshness, mix all ingredients except for the vinaigrette before serving. nutrient-dense breakfast cookies Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just before serving, drizzle on your freshly made vinaigrette to keep everything crisp and delicious!
What variations can I try with this salad?
There are many delightful variations you can explore when making Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette! For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas. You could also experiment by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and healthy fats. Additionally, try mixing in different vegetables such as spinach, arugula, or roasted bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition! Each variation allows you to customize this salad according to your preferences.
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette, simply use gluten-free penne pasta made from rice, quinoa, or other gluten-free grains available on the market today. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free; most feta cheeses are inherently gluten-free but check labels on packaged items like dressings and nuts just to be safe! This way you can enjoy this flavorful salad without worrying about gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette :
In conclusion, making a delicious Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette requires attention to detail at every step—from selecting fresh ingredients to achieving perfect flavor balance. Avoiding common mistakes like overcooking pasta ensures your dish maintains appealing textures while proper storage keeps leftovers fresh longer. tasty salad with fresh ingredients Feel free to customize this versatile recipe by trying different substitutions and additions that suit your taste preferences. With these tips in mind, you’ll create a delightful salad that’s not only tasty but also visually stunning and perfect for any occasion! Enjoy crafting this refreshing dish that everyone will love!
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together the nutty flavor of whole grain penne, creamy feta cheese, and sweet dried cranberries. Dressed in a zesty orange vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or any gathering. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a quick and delicious way to impress family and friends while enjoying a nutrient-packed meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole grain penne pasta
- 1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled penne pasta with cranberries, feta cheese, and spinach.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently until well-coated.
- Chill for 15 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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