Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen with the summer sun streaming through the window, a craving for something vibrant yet satisfying hit me. Enter the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette—a delightful combination that has quickly become my go-to for light lunches and potlucks. This salad manages to strike a perfect chord between creamy feta, sweet dried cranberries, and the zingy brightness of lemon vinaigrette, making it ideal for those warm afternoons. With minimal prep time and refreshing ingredients, it’s not just a meal, but a celebration of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of your lunch, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Are you ready to whip up this delicious creation? Why is this salad a must-try? Vibrant Colors: The vivid hues of the fresh ingredients make this salad not only appealing but a feast for the eyes. Easy Preparation: With just a handful of steps, this dish comes together quickly, perfect for anyone short on time but big on flavor. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for a summer picnic or a casual dinner, this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is sure to win over friends and family alike. Customizable Options: Want to switch things up? Swap the rigatoni for your favorite pasta or use a different cheese like goat cheese for a unique twist! You may also enjoy pairing it with dishes like Strawberry Spinach Salad for a fantastic meal combo. Refreshing Flavor: The zesty lemon vinaigrette perfectly complements the creamy feta and sweet cranberries, leaving you refreshed and satisfied. Make this dish your seasonal staple! Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Ingredients For this vibrant and delicious Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad, you’ll need these fresh ingredients to create a delightful blend of flavors. For the Pasta Rigatoni Pasta – Provides structure and texture, ideal for holding the vinaigrette. Note: Can substitute with penne, farfalle, or rotini. For the Salad Feta Cheese – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor, balancing the sweetness of cranberries. Substitution: Goat cheese or ricotta salata for a different cheese profile. Dried Cranberries – Contributes sweetness and chewy texture, providing a pop of flavor and color. Substitution: Raisins or dried cherries may be used. Red Onion (finely chopped) – Offers sharpness and crunch to balance the creaminess. Note: Use shallots or green onions for a milder flavor. Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Adds freshness and bright color to the dish. Substitution: Fresh cilantro or basil can work as alternatives. For the Vinaigrette Olive Oil – Forms the base of the vinaigrette, providing richness. Lemon Juice – Provides acidity and brightness, complementing the other flavors. Honey – Adds a subtle sweetness to the vinaigrette, balancing acidity. Note: Maple syrup can be a vegan alternative. Dijon Mustard – Enhances the dressing with tang and helps emulsify. Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement. Gather these ingredients for your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad, and prepare to impress everyone with this light, vibrant dish! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Step 1: Boil the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, stir in the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually around 10 to 12 minutes, until it’s al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and keep an eye out for that perfect chewy texture. Step 2: Drain and Rinse Once the rigatoni reaches the al dente stage, carefully drain it in a colander. Rinse the pasta under cold running water for about 1-2 minutes to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step not only halts further cooking but also helps ensure your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad remains refreshingly crisp. Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Ingredients After draining, let the pasta sit for a minute to remove excess moisture. Transfer the cooled rigatoni to a large mixing bowl. Now, add the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped parsley. The combination of these ingredients will begin to form the vibrant base of your salad. Step 4: Whisk the Vinaigrette In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, the juice of one fresh lemon, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Season the vinaigrette with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Whisk until the mixture is well emulsified and smooth, creating a zesty dressing for your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. Step 5: Dress the Salad Pour the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the pasta mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or tongs until the salad is well coated, and the flavors are distributed evenly. Take a moment to admire the colorful medley of ingredients coming together in this delightful Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad. Step 6: Taste and Adjust After tossing, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a touch more honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing. This step ensures your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad has the perfect balance of flavors tailored to your personal taste. Step 7: Chill and Serve For the best flavor, let your salad sit for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. Serve your salad chilled or at room temperature—either way, it’s sure to be a hit as a refreshing dish for your next meal! How to Store and Freeze Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Fridge: Store your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor. Vinaigrette: If you’ve made the salad in advance, it’s best to store the vinaigrette separately to avoid soggy pasta. This way, you can enjoy the crisp texture of the rigatoni. Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the texture changes of the pasta and feta once thawed. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste! Reheating: If you decide to serve leftovers, you can enjoy the salad cold or let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors! Expert Tips for Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Pasta Perfection: Ensure your rigatoni is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad. This texture will complement the other ingredients beautifully. Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavor profile, letting all the ingredients meld together wonderfully. Fresh is Best: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for the parsley. This will give your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad a vibrant, lively flavor. Separate Storage: If making ahead, store the vinaigrette separately until you’re ready to serve to avoid soggy pasta and keep freshness intact. Taste and Adjust: Always taste your salad after mixing in the dressing and adjust seasonings as needed. A pinch more salt or a touch more honey can elevate your dish beautifully! What to Serve with Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad This vibrant pasta salad is not only a delight on its own, but it also plays beautifully with a variety of dishes and flavors, creating a full dining experience. Grilled Chicken: Perfectly seasoned grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the salad’s freshness. It makes for a wholesome meal that’s satisfying yet light. Shrimp Skewers: Juicy, marinated shrimp on skewers bring a touch of the sea, offering a succulent pairing that complements the tangy vinaigrette. Plus, the presentation is simply stunning! Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch, helping to soak up the lemon vinaigrette. It’s an effortless addition that rounds out your meal beautifully. Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the zesty flavor of the salad, making every bite feel refreshing. Sip alongside for a delightful dining experience. Chilled Soup: Consider a light gazpacho to refresh your palate in warmer months. Its cool, vegetable-rich profile resonates well with the colors and tastes of your salad. Fruit Salad: A sweet, vibrant fruit salad with berries and melons creates a sweet juxtaposition against the tangy feta and cranberries, making for a lovely finish. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, opt for a silky chocolate mousse. Its richness will beautifully contrast with the lightness of your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad, capping the meal in indulgent style. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on a skewer offer an elegant appetizer that ties into the salad’s vibrant character while being easy to manage. Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Variations Feel free to personalize this dish with exciting twists that elevate every bite! Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free pasta like brown rice or quinoa pasta for a delightful alternative. Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for added texture and rustic flavor. Spice it Up: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños for a touch of heat. Herb Swap: Replace parsley with fresh basil or dill to create a different flavor profile! Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced apples, pears, or orange segments for an extra burst of sweetness. Creamy Alternative: For a richer taste, mix in some avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Savory Kick: Add cooked bacon or prosciutto bits to introduce a savory note that complements the sweetness of the cranberries. Zesty Kick: Include a splash of balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a tangy depth in your vinaigrette. This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad’s versatility means you can experiment endlessly! You might also want to try pairing it with a refreshing Apple Feta Salad or a classic Macaroni Salad for an elaborate meal. Enjoy the journey of flavors! Make Ahead Options These Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad preparations are a blessing for busy home cooks! You can easily cook the rigatoni and let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, prepare the vinaigrette in advance and refrigerate it separately for optimal freshness; the flavors will remain vibrant. When ready to enjoy your salad, simply toss the cooled pasta with the crumbled feta, cranberries, red onion, and parsley, then drizzle with the dressing. This approach maintains the dish’s delightful textures, ensuring your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is just as delicious as if it were freshly made! Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad Recipe FAQs What type of rigatoni works best for this salad? Absolutely! Classic rigatoni is ideal for holding the vinaigrette, but you can easily substitute it with penne, farfalle, or rotini if you prefer a different shape or texture. Each option brings something unique while still complementing the vibrant ingredients. How should I store leftovers of the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad? Very simply! Store your Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’ve made the vinaigrette separately, add it just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness and flavor. Can I freeze the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad? Unfortunately, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture of the pasta and feta won’t hold up well when thawed, leading to a soggy salad experience. I suggest enjoying it fresh for the best taste! What if my pasta is too soggy? If your rigatoni ends up too soft, there are a couple of things you can do! First, make sure to cook it al dente according to package instructions, and rinse it under cold water once drained. If it’s already soggy, consider adding some fresh veggies like crisp bell peppers or chopped cucumbers for added texture. How can I accommodate dietary restrictions for this salad? The Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free by substituting the rigatoni with gluten-free pasta. For those who may have dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives like cashew cheese or a similar product to still enjoy the creamy texture without the lactose. Can my pets share in this salad? While it’s tempting to share your delicious Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad, be cautious! The ingredients such as onions can be harmful to pets. If you want to share, opt to set aside some plain pasta without dressing, and they will appreciate the treat! Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad: A Refreshing Summer Delight A vibrant and satisfying Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, perfect for light lunches and potlucks. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 57 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SaladCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 ounces Rigatoni Pasta Can substitute with penne, farfalle, or rotini.For the Salad8 ounces Feta Cheese Substitution: Goat cheese or ricotta salata for a different cheese profile.1 cup Dried Cranberries Substitution: Raisins or dried cherries may be used.1/2 medium Red Onion (finely chopped) Use shallots or green onions for a milder flavor.1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) Substitution: Fresh cilantro or basil can work as alternatives.For the Vinaigrette1/4 cup Olive Oil1/4 cup Lemon Juice1 tablespoon Honey Maple syrup can be a vegan alternative.1 teaspoon Dijon Mustardto taste Salt & Black Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement. Equipment large potColandermixing bowlWhiskspatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, stir in the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually around 10 to 12 minutes, until it’s al dente.Once the rigatoni reaches the al dente stage, carefully drain it in a colander. Rinse the pasta under cold running water for about 1-2 minutes to stop the cooking process and cool it down.After draining, let the pasta sit for a minute to remove excess moisture. Transfer the cooled rigatoni to a large mixing bowl. Now, add the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped parsley.In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, the juice of one fresh lemon, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Season the vinaigrette with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.Pour the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the pasta mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or tongs until the salad is well coated.After tossing, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a touch more honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing.For the best flavor, let your salad sit for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg NotesStore the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the vinaigrette separately if made in advance to avoid soggy pasta. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
