Feta & cranberry rigatoni salad with lemon vinaigrette bliss

Name: Feta & cranberry rigatoni salad with lemon vinaigrette bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup red onion, diced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on December 3, 2025

Posted by Georgina sami

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Oh, let me tell you about this feta & cranberry rigatoni salad with lemon vinaigrette! It’s like a little burst of sunshine on your plate! The combination of creamy feta and sweet-tart cranberries is just divine, and it pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon vinaigrette that brings everything together. I love how refreshing it is—perfect for those warm days when you want something light yet satisfying. Plus, it comes together in no time! Seriously, you could whip this up in under 30 minutes, and it’s a fantastic dish to bring to potlucks or serve at a casual dinner. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for all your summer gatherings!

Ingredients List

Let’s gather everything you’ll need for this delicious feta & cranberry rigatoni salad with lemon vinaigrette. I promise you, these ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor!

8 oz rigatoni pasta: This is the star of the dish! Cook it until it’s al dente for that perfect bite.
1 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, this adds a delightful richness to the salad.
1/2 cup dried cranberries: These little gems bring a sweet-tart flavor that balances the dish beautifully.
1/4 cup red onion, diced: For a bit of crunch and a hint of sharpness—just chop it finely so it mixes well!
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: This adds a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens everything up.
1/4 cup olive oil: A key player in our lemon vinaigrette—go for the good stuff for maximum flavor!
2 tbsp lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It gives that zesty kick we crave.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: This adds a subtle depth of flavor to the dressing.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all those flavors together!

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to whip up a salad that’s sure to impress!

How to Prepare the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—putting this fabulous salad together! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’re going to love how it all comes together. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying your delicious feta & cranberry rigatoni salad in no time!

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. You want it nice and bubbly! Add your 8 oz rigatoni pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 8–10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick together. You want it to be al dente—firm to the bite! Once it’s done, drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni with 1 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, 1/4 cup diced red onion, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Gently toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well-coated with the other ingredients. The colors are going to be so vibrant—just wait until you see them!

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette

Now, let’s whip up that zesty dressing! In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. I like to give it a good whisk until it’s emulsified and smooth. The aroma of fresh lemon is going to make your mouth water!

Step 4: Toss the Salad

Pour that delicious lemon vinaigrette over your salad mixture and toss everything gently to combine. You want to ensure that every piece of pasta and ingredient gets a lovely coating of that tangy dressing. It’s going to look so inviting—feel free to dig in with a fork for a little taste test!

Step 5: Serving Suggestions

This salad is super versatile! You can serve it chilled straight from the fridge or at room temperature—either way, it’s a winner. If you want to get a little fancy, sprinkle some extra feta or fresh parsley on top just before serving. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a cozy dinner at home!

Tips for Success

Alright, friends, here are some of my best tips to ensure your feta & cranberry rigatoni salad with lemon vinaigrette turns out absolutely fabulous!

Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep an eye on that rigatoni! Al dente is the way to go, as it holds up better in the salad and won’t get mushy.
Fresh ingredients matter: Use fresh parsley and quality feta cheese, as they really elevate the flavors. Trust me, it makes a difference!
Experiment with nuts: For some added crunch, toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans. They add a lovely texture and flavor contrast!
Play with the dressing: If you like it tangier, add a splash more lemon juice or a bit of honey for a hint of sweetness.
Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill for about 30 minutes after mixing helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you can wait, it’s worth it!
Make it your own: Feel free to swap out the dried cranberries for dried cherries or even some chopped apples for a different twist on sweetness.

These little tips will help you shine in the kitchen and make this salad a hit at any gathering! Enjoy the process and have fun with it!

Nutritional Information

Curious about what’s in this delicious feta & cranberry rigatoni salad with lemon vinaigrette? Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving—keep in mind, these numbers can vary a bit based on the specific brands or ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea!

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 400mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 10g

This salad is not only refreshing and tasty but also provides a good balance of nutrients, making it a great choice for a light meal or side dish. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself well!

FAQ Section

Can I make this salad in advance?

Absolutely! This feta & cranberry rigatoni salad is perfect for making ahead of time. I like to prepare it a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll be ready to serve when you are. The flavors will actually meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious!

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If feta isn’t your thing or you’re looking for a change, don’t worry! You can easily swap it out for some creamy goat cheese or queso fresco for a similar texture. If you want something a bit different, try using ricotta for a lighter option or even a bit of blue cheese if you’re feeling adventurous!

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

Once you’ve mixed up this delightful salad, it will last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Just keep it stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. However, I recommend enjoying it within the first couple of days for the best flavor and texture. Trust me, it’s so tasty, you might not have any leftovers anyway!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This feta & cranberry rigatoni salad with lemon vinaigrette is an absolute gem that you’ll want to make again and again! Here’s why I adore it:

Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delightful salad in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Refreshing Flavors: The combination of creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and zesty lemon creates a bright, refreshing dish that’s like a flavor party in your mouth!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this salad is loaded with good-for-you fats, fiber, and protein, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to mix it up! Add your favorite nuts, swap in different cheeses, or toss in seasonal veggies to make it your own.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a cozy dinner at home, this salad is always a hit!
Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s ideal for prepping ahead of time, as the flavors get even better after sitting for a bit in the fridge!

Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s chat about how to keep your leftover feta & cranberry rigatoni salad fresh and tasty! This salad is super easy to store, and I’ve got a few tips to help you enjoy it later without losing any of that delicious flavor.

First off, once you’ve made your salad, let it cool completely if it’s still warm. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. This is key! It helps to keep the salad fresh and prevents it from absorbing any unwanted odors from your fridge.

You can store your salad in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days—though honestly, it’s so good, it might not last that long! Just make sure to give it a gentle toss before serving again, as the ingredients might settle a bit.

Now, when it comes to reheating, keep in mind that this salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to heat it up! If you do prefer a warm salad (I get it, sometimes that’s what you crave!), you can gently warm it in a pan over low heat for just a couple of minutes. Just be careful not to overheat it, or the feta might get too soft and lose its lovely texture.

And there you have it! Store it right, and you’ll be ready to enjoy this delightful salad even days later. Happy munching!