Go Back
Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette on a serving plate

Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad

A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad with salty feta, dried cranberries, and a tangy orange vinaigrette. Perfect for potlucks and holiday gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 8 ounces penne pasta Cook according to package instructions.
  • 1 cup baby spinach Gently stir in when pasta is lukewarm.
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced Chop thin to avoid strong flavor.
Cheese and Fruits
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled Use crumbly feta for best results.
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
Vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup orange juice Freshly squeezed is ideal.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as necessary.
Optional Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts Skip if allergic or if texture is a concern.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled penne, feta cheese, dried cranberries, red onion, baby spinach, and walnuts if using.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Notes

Make the pasta and vinaigrette ahead of time, but toss everything together right before serving to avoid soggy spinach.