Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey with this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad, a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion! Bursting with colorful ingredients and dressed in a zesty orange vinaigrette, this salad is sure to impress at potlucks, picnics, or even a simple family dinner. The combination of tangy cranberries, creamy feta, and crunchy walnuts creates not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Let’s dive into this fabulous recipe that is as easy to prepare as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (or dried cranberries for a sweeter touch)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 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
- Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta, cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, chopped walnuts, fresh parsley, and sliced green onions. Stir gently to incorporate all those lovely ingredients.
- In a small separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed orange juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the dressing is beautifully blended.
- Pour the bright orange vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss everything together gently, ensuring each piece is coated in that luscious dressing.
- Remember to taste your salad! Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to your liking.
- This salad can be served immediately or refrigerated for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together even more delightfully.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can substitute fresh cranberries with dried ones for a sweeter flavor or add other ingredients like diced bell peppers or sliced olives for an extra twist. If you’re preparing this salad ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the walnuts and the freshness of the herbs.
Cooking Techniques
When cooking pasta, remember to check for doneness a minute or two early so you can hit that perfect al dente texture, which adds a nice chewiness to the dish. Rinsing the pasta afterward helps cool it down and stops further cooking, ensuring the salad remains fresh and light.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
No problem! This salad can be made a few hours in advance; just store it in the refrigerator. Make sure to add the dressing right before serving for the best taste.
What can I serve this salad with?
This penne salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a stand-alone dish. It’s a lovely complement to any barbecue or summer gathering!
Conclusion
This Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is not just a dish, but a celebration of flavors and textures. With its perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a main dish, every bite will remind you of the joys of fresh ingredients and simple cooking. Enjoy every mouthful, and happy cooking!