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Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Bliss

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant, beginner-friendly dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 57 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rigatoni Pasta Gluten-free option available.
  • 4 oz Feta Cheese Goat cheese or vegan feta can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Fresh cranberries can be used for a tart twist.
  • 1/4 cup Toasted Pine Nuts Walnuts or sunflower seeds can be used as substitutes.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Green onion can be used for a milder taste.
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Leaves Can substitute with arugula for a peppery flavor.
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
  • 1 zest and juice Lemon Freshly squeezed lemon juice is ideal.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used for a lighter option.
  • 1 tbsp Honey Maple syrup for a vegan option.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium Bowl
  • colander
  • spatula
  • Airtight Container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to cool it down.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well combined and emulsified. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rigatoni, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted pine nuts, and finely chopped red onion. Toss gently until evenly distributed.
  4. Fold in the baby spinach leaves and the lemon zest into the salad mixture, tossing gently to maintain the spinach's vibrant color.
  5. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad mixture, tossing gently until every ingredient is evenly coated.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
  7. After chilling, give the salad a gentle toss, taste, and adjust the seasoning. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad can be made a day in advance. Just add the spinach right before serving for maximum freshness.

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