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Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad: A Refreshing Lunch Delight

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is a vibrant, easy-to-make meal that combines creamy feta and sweet cranberries for a refreshing lunch.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 57 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rigatoni Pasta Can substitute with penne, farfalle, or rotini.
For the Salad
  • 4 oz Feta Cheese Can substitute with goat cheese or ricotta salata.
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Fresh cranberries are not recommended.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion (finely chopped) Can substitute with green onions.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) Can use any fresh herb.
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Can use lime juice as alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Honey Maple syrup can be used for a vegan option.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be a simpler alternative.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • spatula
  • large spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes.
  2. Cool the Pasta: Drain and rinse the rigatoni under cold water for about 30 seconds to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.
  3. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled rigatoni, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, and chopped red onion. Gently fold the ingredients together.
  4. Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Toss gently, ensuring the rigatoni is coated.
  6. Adjust Seasoning and Chill: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 360mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For added crunch, consider tossing in toasted almonds or walnuts. Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.

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