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–+ servings

Feta Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

A delightful mix of rigatoni pasta, creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and fresh vegetables, dressed in a bright lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for lunch, picnics, or as a side dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces rigatoni pasta Feel free to swap with gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped Kale works too if desired.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Diced bell peppers can give a different kick.
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese Goat cheese or mozzarella can be alternatives.
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries Raisins or chopped dates can be used as substitutes.
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped Green onions can be a milder choice.

Vinaigrette Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil Any neutral vegetable oil can substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Lime juice is a delightful alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Mustard powder can work as a substitute.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic adds a stronger flavor.
  • Salt and pepper To taste for seasoning.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Start by cooking the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it once it's cooked and set it aside to cool.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and finely chopped red onion.

Vinaigrette

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
  • Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad and stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Notes

Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also garnish it with extra feta or fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a nice touch. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2-3 days. The pasta may absorb some dressing, so feel free to add more vinaigrette when serving leftovers.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g
Keyword Feta Cranberry Salad, Healthy Salad, Lemon Vinaigrette, Pasta Salad, Quick Lunch
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