Looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious? Meet the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette—your new go-to recipe for any occasion. Combining creamy feta, tangy dried cranberries, al dente rigatoni, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad offers a burst of flavors and textures in every bite.
Whether you’re a foodie seeking innovative salads, a home cook looking for an easy yet impressive recipe, or a salad lover trying to mix up your greens routine, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
What sets this rigatoni salad apart is its incredible versatility. It’s equally at home at a casual BBQ, a fancy potluck, or even as meal prep for busy weekdays. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a stunning dish that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors perfectly.
Packed with color and zing, this salad isn’t just delicious—it’s a statement. Now, let’s get into the details and bring this dish to life in your kitchen.
Tips for Customization
Want to make this rigatoni salad uniquely yours? Here are some tips to adapt it to your taste or dietary needs.
- Add Protein
Turn this into a more complete meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Rosemary-marinated chicken pairs especially well with the lemon vinaigrette.
- Cheese Alternatives
Not a fan of feta? Swap it out with goat cheese for a creamier texture or try a sharp parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust Sweetness
Prefer a fruitier touch? Toss in some fresh pomegranate seeds or diced apples to amplify the natural sweetness.
- Make It Gluten-Free
Substitute the rigatoni with gluten-free pasta like brown rice or quinoa-based options.
Suggested Serving Ideas
This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad shines every time you serve it, but here are a few scenarios where it’s guaranteed to be the star of the show.
BBQs and Potlucks
The perfect crowd-pleaser, this salad travels well and pairs beautifully with grilled meats and veggies.
Meal Prep Hero
Make a big batch on Sunday and divide it into individual containers for quick, hands-off lunches. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Holiday Side Dish
With its festive colors and flavors, this salad is great as a light side during the holidays, complementing mains like roast turkey or ham.
Why This Recipe Works
This dish is a balance of contrasts. The rigatoni provides chewy heartiness, while the arugula adds a fresh, peppery bite. The cranberries give a sweet-tart pop, and the walnuts or pecans create a crunchy contrast. The lemon vinaigrette ties it all together with a tangy, zesty brightness that keeps the salad from feeling too rich.
Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it solo, one thing is guaranteed—this salad will leave a lasting impression.
Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, walnuts, and fresh spinach leaves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This salad is perfect for making ahead of time, as its flavors only improve after resting. Here’s how to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flair:
- Refrigeration
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal taste, keep the dressing separate if you’re not serving it right away. Toss the salad with the vinaigrette just before serving to preserve the crunchy texture of the nuts and the freshness of the arugula.
- Meal Prep Strategy
If using this recipe for meal prep, divide the salad into individual portions and store the dressing in small, sealed containers. This will prevent the salad from becoming soggy and help it stay vibrant throughout the week.
- Freezing
While the salad itself is best enjoyed fresh, components like the cooked rigatoni can be prepared ahead and frozen for later use. Simply thaw the pasta, and then mix with the other ingredients when you’re ready to assemble the dish. Note that fresh greens like arugula aren’t suitable for freezing, so add those at the end.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure that every bite of this colorful rigatoni salad is as delightful as the first. Tailored to fit your schedule, it’s not just a dish—it’s a foolproof recipe for stress-free cooking.