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Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad: A Creamy, Refreshing Delight

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is a vibrant and creamy blend of flavors perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Rigatoni Pasta Can substitute with penne, farfalle, or rotini.
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese, Crumbled Goat cheese or ricotta salata also work.
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Raisins or dried cherries can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion, Finely Chopped Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, Chopped Optional substitutes include cilantro or basil.
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used for different flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Fresh juice is recommended.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be substituted.
  • to taste Salt Adjust according to your taste preference.
  • to taste Black Pepper Freshly cracked for best flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • wooden spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check for doneness.
  2. After the rigatoni is cooked, carefully drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This halts the cooking process and cools the pasta down.
  3. Transfer the cooled rigatoni into a large mixing bowl. Crumble the feta cheese over the pasta, and then add the dried cranberries and finely chopped red onion. Gently mix these ingredients together until evenly distributed.
  4. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta mixture. Using clean hands or a wooden spoon, carefully toss everything together.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to create a smooth vinaigrette.
  6. Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the rigatoni salad, using a gentle folding motion to coat the pasta and other ingredients evenly.
  7. Taste your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can serve it immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the lemon vinaigrette separate if making in advance.

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