Print

Cranberry Penne Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 99 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Cranberry Penne Salad combining al dente pasta with tangy feta, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and fresh baby spinach, all tossed in a zesty homemade orange vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Cheese

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

Fruits and Nuts

  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped

Vegetables

  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

Orange Vinaigrette

  • ¼ cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
  2. Make the Orange Vinaigrette – In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
  3. Assemble the Salad – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted chopped walnuts, fresh baby spinach, and thinly sliced red onion.
  4. Dress & Toss – Pour the prepared orange vinaigrette over the salad. Toss all ingredients gently yet thoroughly to ensure every bite is coated with the flavorful dressing. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • To toast walnuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
  • Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor; bottled juice may alter the taste.
  • This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated to allow flavors to meld.
  • For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste when making the vinaigrette.

Keywords: cranberry penne salad, pasta salad, feta cheese salad, orange vinaigrette, spinach salad, healthy pasta salad, vegetarian salad, easy summer salad

Find it online: https://biteandenjoy.com/cranberry-penne-salad-recipe/