Feta Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Feta Cranberry Penne Salad combines tender pasta, feta cheese, cranberries, walnuts, and spinach.Everything is tossed in a bright homemade orange vinaigrette.Ready in just 20 minutes and perfect for lunches, picnics, and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup toasted walnuts chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water until completely cool. Drain well.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, baby spinach, and sliced red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the salad.
- Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving for the best flavor. This Feta Cranberry Penne Salad tastes even better after the ingredients have had time to absorb the citrus dressing.
Notes
- Baby arugula can replace spinach for a peppery flavor.
- Goat cheese works well if feta isn't available.
- For extra freshness, garnish with orange zest and chopped parsley.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.