Description
A refreshing and vibrant Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad tossed with an enticing orange vinaigrette. This salad combines the creaminess of feta cheese, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the zesty brightness of fresh orange juice dressing. Perfect as a light main dish or a flavorful side at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Orange Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Once al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- Prepare the Orange Vinaigrette: While the pasta is cooking, in a small mixing bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well emulsified and set aside.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled penne pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley. If using walnuts, add them as well.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the orange vinaigrette over the pasta salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish or a light main course.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make the salad gluten-free.
- The salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and kept refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey according to your preference.
- Feel free to add other fresh herbs like basil or mint for extra freshness.
