If you’re looking for a pasta salad that’s far from ordinary, this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad delivers a vibrant twist. It’s a beautiful medley of tender penne, tangy feta cheese, chewy dried cranberries, and crunchy nuts—tossed with a light, zesty vinaigrette that brings it all together. The salty-sweet flavor combination makes every bite refreshing and satisfying, perfect as a side, light lunch, or even a potluck showstopper.
Why You’ll Love This Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
Unexpected flavor combo: Tangy feta and sweet cranberries balance beautifully.
Perfect for all seasons: Great cold in summer or at holiday gatherings.
Easy to customize: Add arugula, grilled chicken, or walnuts.
Meal-prep friendly: Holds up well in the fridge for days.
Light yet filling: Ideal for lunchboxes or easy entertaining.
Ingredients for Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
Minimal prep, max flavor—just start with these:
Penne pasta: This tubular pasta holds the dressing beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
Fresh spinach: Adds a vibrant green color and a nutritious boost to the salad.
Feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, it’s the star ingredient that elevates the dish.
Dried cranberries: These little gems bring a sweet contrast to the savory elements.
Walnuts: Crunchy and nutty, they add texture and healthy fats to the mix.
Red onion: Finely diced, it provides a sharp bite that balances the sweetness of the cranberries.
Olive oil: A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, it adds richness and helps the flavors meld.
Balsamic vinegar: This tangy dressing component enhances the overall flavor profile.
Honey: Just a touch of sweetness to round out the dressing.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they help bring all the flavors together.
For those looking to customize, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. If walnuts aren’t your thing, pecans or almonds can be great substitutes. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
Creating this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the penne pasta. Cook it until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. You want it firm but not hard. After draining the pasta, rinse it under cold water. This step is crucial! Rinsing cools the pasta and stops the cooking process, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta with the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and finely diced red onion. Gently mix everything together. The colors should pop, and the textures should contrast beautifully. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. This dressing is the secret sauce that ties all the flavors together. Make sure to whisk until it’s well combined and slightly emulsified. The sweetness from the honey balances the tanginess of the vinegar, creating a delightful dressing.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
Now, pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure every ingredient is coated evenly. This is where you can get creative! If you want to add a little more crunch, feel free to sprinkle in some extra walnuts or cranberries. Just be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that lovely texture.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or at room temperature. Pair it with grilled chicken for a heartier meal or serve it as a refreshing side dish. Either way, it’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
Always rinse the pasta under cold water to prevent it from sticking together.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; opt for high-quality feta and fresh spinach.
Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Adjust the dressing to your taste; add more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tang.
Feel free to experiment with different nuts or add-ins for variety!
Equipment Needed
Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta. A deep skillet can work too.
Colander: To drain the pasta. A fine mesh strainer is a good alternative.
Mixing bowl: For combining ingredients. Any large bowl will do.
Whisk: To mix the dressing. A fork can also get the job done.
Refrigerator: Essential for chilling the salad before serving.
Variations
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier salad that packs a protein punch.
Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or mozzarella instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
Nut Alternatives: Substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic twist.
Fruit Twist: Incorporate diced apples or pears for an extra layer of sweetness and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with Grilled Chicken: This salad complements grilled chicken beautifully, adding protein and heartiness.
Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
Refreshing Drink: Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Presentation: Serve in a large bowl garnished with extra feta and cranberries for a stunning look.
FAQs about Feta Cranberry Penne Salad
Can I make Feta Cranberry Penne Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is vegetarian-friendly! It’s packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a great option for anyone looking for a healthy meal.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If feta isn’t your thing, you can try goat cheese or even mozzarella. Each will bring a unique flavor to the salad while keeping it delicious!
How can I make this salad gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free pasta alternative. There are many great options available that taste fantastic!
Can I add more vegetables to the salad?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes. They’ll add even more color and crunch to your Feta Cranberry Penne Salad.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to your table. Each bite bursts with flavor, from the creamy feta to the sweet cranberries, making it a delightful experience for both you and your guests. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny picnic or serving it at a family gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, allowing you to spend more time savoring the moment. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this refreshing dish that celebrates the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients!
