Description
This vibrant Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is a refreshing pasta dish combining creamy feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, crisp cucumber, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or as a flavorful side, this salad balances tangy, sweet, and savory flavors with a delightful mix of textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon Vinaigrette
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook for about 10 minutes or until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down completely.
- Make the Lemon Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rigatoni, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately or chill for up to an hour for flavors to meld.
Notes
- For best texture, make sure to cool the pasta completely before mixing with the dressing to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Honey in the vinaigrette is optional but adds a lovely subtle sweetness to balance the tart lemon and salty feta.
- This salad is excellent served chilled, making it ideal for picnic or make-ahead meals.
- Feel free to substitute rigatoni with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste after mixing, since feta is already salty.
