Description
A refreshing and vibrant Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad tossed with a citrusy orange vinaigrette, combining tangy feta, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy nuts, and fresh herbs for a perfect light meal or side dish.
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: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, finely chopped red onion, and toasted pecans or walnuts if using. Toss gently to mix evenly.
- Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- Dress the salad: Pour the prepared orange vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the salad as a bright finishing touch. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for warm weather or as a side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute penne with any other short pasta shape like fusilli or rotini.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or walnuts.
- Adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup to taste.
- This salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours, but toss again before serving.
- Add chopped cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and freshness if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
