Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that bursts with flavor and color! This Feta Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is the perfect blend of creamy feta, tart cranberries, and refreshing herbs all tossed together in a vibrant, zesty dressing. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a crowd-pleasing side, or a lovely addition to a potluck, this salad offers a medley of tastes that will brighten your table and tantalize your taste buds. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (or dried cranberries if preferred)
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta, crumbled feta cheese, fresh cranberries, chopped red onion, and parsley. The colors alone will excite your senses!
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh orange juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well blended and smooth.
- Drizzle the vibrant dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Take a moment to taste your creation and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed — this is your chance to personalize the flavors!
- For the best result, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- When you’re ready to serve, bring it out and enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. It’s absolutely delightful!
Notes or Tips
- If you prefer a sweeter profile, feel free to add a little more honey to the dressing.
- This salad can be made a day ahead, making it a great option for meal prep. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
- For a twist, add some toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy feta.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking pasta to the right texture is essential. Aim for al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This not only provides the best texture for salads but also helps the pasta hold up against the dressing without becoming mushy. Additionally, tossing the salad in a gentle manner ensures that all ingredients remain intact and mixed without breaking the feta.
FAQ
- Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh? Absolutely! Dried cranberries will add a nice sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the feta.
- How long can I store the salad? The salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again!
- Can I modify the dressing? Yes! Feel free to experiment with different vinegars or citrus juices, like lemon or lime, if you want to switch up the flavor.
Conclusion
This Feta Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this salad will surely become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy each bite as it transports you to a sunny picnic with its refreshing burst of flavor. Happy cooking!