Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette Recipe

If you are looking for a salad that perfectly balances creamy, sweet, tangy, and fresh flavors, the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is an absolute showstopper. This vibrant pasta salad combines tender penne with the salty punch of feta, the natural sweetness of dried cranberries, and a refreshing crunch from cucumber and nuts. Tossed in a zesty orange vinaigrette, it’s a burst of color and flavor in every bite, perfect for any season, whether as a lively side or a light main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this salad lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role — from textures to flavor contrasts — making it a dish that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat.

• 3 cups cooked penne pasta: The foundation of our salad, offering a hearty yet mild base to soak up all the vibrant flavors.
• ½ cup crumbled feta: Adds a creamy, salty burst that perfectly complements the sweet cranberries.
• ½ cup dried cranberries: Provide a chewy texture and natural sweetness to balance the tangy vinaigrette.
• 1 cup baby spinach or arugula: Brings a fresh, slightly peppery green element to brighten the dish.
• ½ cup cucumber, diced: Adds a cool, crisp crunch to awaken your palate.
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a sharp, savory bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweeter notes.
• ¼ cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional): Introduces an earthy crunch and richness, rounding out the textures.
• 3 tbsp olive oil: The base for our orange vinaigrette, bringing smooth richness.
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice: Freshly squeezed for a bright, citrusy zing that lifts the entire salad.
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that balances the sweet and savory components.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a gentle kick and helps emulsify the vinaigrette.
• 1 tsp honey: A touch of natural sweetness to harmonize with the tartness and saltiness.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Make Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by preparing the penne pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente for the best texture in your salad. Once cooked, drain it well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta down. This step ensures your salad stays fresh and prevents the pasta from clumping.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Orange Vinaigrette

Next, let’s bring the dressing to life. In a small bowl, vigorously whisk together olive oil, fresh orange juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The result is a smooth, bright vinaigrette that perfectly ties together all the salad’s flavors with a lovely citrus kick.

Step 3: Combine All the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together the cooled penne, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, baby spinach or arugula, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and if you’re feeling fancy, the toasted nuts. This colorful mix promises a variety of textures and flavors that blend seamlessly in every forkful.

Step 4: Dress and Toss the Salad

Pour the freshly made orange vinaigrette over your salad and toss gently to combine. Take care to distribute the dressing evenly so every bite carries that vibrant zing and glossy finish that makes this dish unforgettable.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

This salad is lovely served chilled straight from the fridge or at room temperature. It’s wonderfully versatile — whether as a bright side dish to your favorite grilled protein or a refreshing main on its own. Dive in and savor the harmonious blend of flavors!

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Garnishes

Elevate this salad with a sprinkle of freshly chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an aromatic touch. A few extra toasted nuts on top add crunch, while a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a zest of orange peel can enhance the citrus notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish, adding a refreshing contrast to smoky flavors. It also stands well alongside a crusty artisan bread or a light soup, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious lunch or supper.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or casual gathering, serve the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette in individual mason jars or clear glasses to showcase its colorful layers. You can also use butter lettuce cups to create handheld salad bites that are as fun to eat as they are delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your salad fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days to maintain the vibrant flavors and crisp textures, especially the greens and cucumber.

Freezing

Because of the fresh ingredients like spinach and cucumber, freezing the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is not recommended. The texture of these components would suffer upon thawing, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be eaten cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you do prefer it slightly warm, remove the salad’s fresh greens and delicate ingredients first, gently warm the pasta portion, then combine everything back together before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for its shape and ability to hold dressing, feel free to experiment with fusilli, farfalle, or even small shells. Just be sure to cook it to al dente for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the feta with a vegan cheese alternative or omit it altogether. You can also use maple syrup in place of honey to keep the orange vinaigrette plant-based.

What can I substitute for dried cranberries?

If you don’t have cranberries on hand, dried cherries, raisins, or even pomegranate seeds make excellent alternatives, providing a similar burst of sweetness and chewiness.

How long does the vinaigrette keep?

The orange vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using as the ingredients may naturally separate.

Can I pack this salad for lunch?

Definitely! It’s a perfect make-ahead lunch. To avoid sogginess, pack the vinaigrette separately and toss just before eating to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette will soon become one of your most requested recipes. Its vibrant flavors and delightful textures make every bite a little celebration, while the colorful presentation brightens any table. Give it a go, and you might just find your new favorite salad!