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Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

A refreshing pasta salad featuring creamy feta cheese, sweet cranberries, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad Ingredients
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese adds creaminess
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries for sweetness
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced adds crunch
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved for juiciness
Lemon Vinaigrette Ingredients
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice for tanginess
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced for aromatic flavor
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional) for sweetness
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil salted water in a pot. Add the rigatoni and cook for about 10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and cool under cold running water.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assembly
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes.
  2. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat, being careful not to break the pasta.
  3. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

To elevate flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or mint, grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein, or toasted nuts for crunch. The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.