Description
A refreshing and vibrant Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad tossed with a zesty orange vinaigrette. This easy-to-make pasta salad combines creamy feta, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy nuts, and fresh herbs for a perfect light lunch or side dish, served chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Salad
- 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
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
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooled pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, finely chopped red onion, and toasted nuts if using, ensuring an even distribution of flavors and textures.
- Prepare the Orange Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk fresh orange juice, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the orange vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the salad for a bright, fresh finish. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a light meal or a side dish.
Notes
- To toast nuts, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
- This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; toss again before serving to redistribute dressing.
- For a vegan version, substitute feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- If fresh orange juice is not available, substitute with high-quality bottled juice, but fresh is preferred for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
