Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Introduction
Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a bright and tasty dish perfect for any occasion. This salad combines the heartiness of rigatoni pasta with the freshness of spinach, the creaminess of feta cheese, the sweetness of cranberries, and the crunch of walnuts. It’s easy to prepare and great for lunch, dinner, or a picnic.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it is simple, quick, and delicious. It’s a great way to enjoy pasta in a fresh and healthy way. The mix of flavors and textures makes it irresistible. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni, spinach, feta cheese, cranberries, and walnuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
You can serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes for a great side dish at picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. You can also serve it as a light main dish on its own.
How to Store Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you notice any water from the vegetables, just give it a quick stir before serving again.
Tips to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; you want it to be firm.
- You can add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- For extra flavor, let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Variation
You can easily customize this salad by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. If you prefer other nuts, try almonds or pecans instead of walnuts.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Penne or farfalle would also work well.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
Enjoy making this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! It’s a delightful dish that everyone will love.
