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Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad: A Zesty Flavor Adventure

A delightful blend of creamy feta, chewy cranberries, and zesty lemon vinaigrette in a refreshing pasta salad.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 57 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rigatoni Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • 4 oz Feta Cheese Can be replaced with goat cheese or omitted for dairy-free.
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Substitute with dried cherries or raisins if desired.
  • 1/4 cup Toasted Pine Nuts Can be replaced with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Can replace with arugula or mixed greens for variety.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Use lime juice in a pinch.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil is a suitable alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Honey Substitute with maple syrup for vegan option.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • medium bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook for about 10–12 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rigatoni, feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted pine nuts, and red onion. Gently fold ingredients together.
  4. Incorporate the baby spinach and lemon zest into the salad mixture. Gently toss to combine.
  5. Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently mix until well combined.
  6. Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Add the baby spinach just before serving to keep it crisp. Feel free to swap ingredients based on dietary needs or preferences.

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