Imagine sinking your fork into a creamy feta and cranberry rigatoni salad tossed in zesty lemon vinaigrette dressing. The tangy aroma wafts through the air, mingling with the sweetness of cranberries and the richness of feta. Turkey sliders with cranberry aioli This dish makes your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Cozy bolognese sauce recipe Whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy dinner at home, this salad is your go-to dish that promises to impress.

Now, let me take you back to that unforgettable family reunion where I brought this salad for the first time. As I placed it on the table, my cousin’s eyes lit up like a kid on Christmas morning. It was love at first sight! With vibrant colors and an irresistible scent, everyone eagerly dove in, leaving not a single noodle behind. You’ll want to experience those same delighted reactions from your family and friends!

I remember the laughter and compliments I received when serving this dish; it became an instant classic at family gatherings.

this recipe

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rigatoni Pasta: Choose high-quality pasta; its ridges hold onto the dressing beautifully.

• Creamy Feta Cheese: Opt for fresh feta for a rich flavor; crumbled works best. For more inspiration, check out this Watermelon Feta Salad recipe.

• Dried Cranberries: Look for plump cranberries; they add a delightful sweetness.

• Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemons for that zesty punch; bottled just won’t cut it.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances flavor; don’t skimp on this!

• Dijon Mustard: Adds subtle heat and depth to the vinaigrette.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together.

• Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish, fresh parsley adds color and freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Stuffed flank steak recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by boiling water in a large pot with a pinch of salt. Once boiling, add rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Remember, no one likes mushy pasta!

While the pasta cooks, prepare your zesty lemon vinaigrette dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Creamy pasta dishes The aroma will be lively!

Once cooked, drain the rigatoni but don’t rinse it—let that starchy goodness cling to the pasta! In a large mixing bowl, combine hot rigatoni with crumbled feta cheese and dried cranberries while everything is still warm. This helps melt the cheese slightly.

Pour your zesty lemon vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is coated evenly. The colors should pop!

Finally, serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes if you prefer it cold. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for that extra touch of elegance.

And there you have it—a creamy feta and cranberry rigatoni salad tossed in zesty lemon vinaigrette dressing that’s bound to steal the spotlight at any meal! Enjoy every bite! For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Cheesecake Squares recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Cook the rigatoni until al dente, then toss it with feta and cranberries while still warm. This method melds the flavors beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for dried cherries or add nuts for crunch. Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint for extra freshness.

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave to prevent drying out.

Sharing this creamy feta and cranberry rigatoni salad brought smiles during my last family gathering; they couldn’t get enough of it!

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day early; just keep dressing separate until serving.

What can I use instead of pasta?

Try quinoa or couscous for a gluten-free alternative that’s equally delicious.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

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Creamy Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

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• Author: Hellen
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in a refreshing creamy feta and cranberry rigatoni salad, drizzled with zesty lemon vinaigrette. This vibrant dish combines the tang of feta cheese and the sweetness of cranberries, creating a delightful balance that will elevate any meal. Perfect for summer picnics or cozy dinners, this salad is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Do not rinse after draining.
3. While the pasta cooks, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm rigatoni with crumbled feta and dried cranberries.
5. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.
6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 20mg