Description
A refreshing and flavorful Rigatoni Salad featuring tangy feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, crisp cucumber, and vibrant cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon Vinaigrette
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, rinse with cold water to cool, and set aside to drain completely.
- Make the Lemon Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until the vinaigrette is emulsified and smooth. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rigatoni, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine, making sure the pasta and ingredients are evenly coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Rinsing the pasta with cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from sticking together.
- The honey in the vinaigrette is optional and can be adjusted based on your preference for sweetness.
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- For added crunch, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds.
