Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

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Looking for a salad that eats like a meal but still feels light and refreshing? This Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette hits the perfect balance between hearty and fresh. Tender penne pasta is tossed with peppery arugula, tangy feta, crunchy toasted pecans, and sweet dried cranberries, all drizzled with a zesty homemade orange vinaigrette that brightens every bite.

This dish is equally ideal for a quick lunch, a healthy dinner side, or even a beautiful addition to your picnic or potluck spread. It comes together in under 30 minutes and offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. Plus, it keeps well, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weekdays.

What Makes a Great Pasta Salad Dressing?

The key to elevating any pasta salad lies in the dressing. Here, the orange vinaigrette adds citrusy brightness without overpowering the other ingredients. It pairs beautifully with the richness of feta and the sweetness of dried cranberries. Always taste and adjust the seasoning—a pinch of salt or extra drizzle of honey can make all the difference.

Ingredients for the Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

• Penne Pasta: This short pasta shape holds up well in salads and traps the dressing perfectly.
• Arugula: Adds a peppery freshness and a burst of green.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides salty, creamy contrast.
• Dried Cranberries: Their tart-sweetness balances the savory ingredients.
• Toasted Pecans: Offer buttery crunch and nutty depth.
• Orange Juice & Zest: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest give the vinaigrette its signature brightness.
• Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness to the dressing.
• Dijon Mustard: Brings a subtle tang and helps emulsify the vinaigrette.
• Honey: Just a touch for sweetness to round out the citrus.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential to enhance all the flavors.

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How To Make the Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Orange Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, 1 tsp orange zest, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, 1/3 cup olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until emulsified and smooth.

Step 3: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Remove from heat and cool.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, arugula, cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta. Drizzle the vinaigrette over and toss gently to coat.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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Serving and Storing This Vibrant Salad

This penne salad is best served slightly chilled, making it perfect for warm-weather meals or meal prep lunches. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If prepping ahead, consider storing the vinaigrette separately and tossing just before serving to keep the arugula fresh.

What to Serve With Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad?

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

A light protein like grilled chicken adds heartiness without weighing the meal down.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their caramelized sweetness complements the tangy cranberries.

Tomato Basil Soup

A cozy bowl of this soup contrasts nicely with the chilled pasta salad.

Crusty Multigrain Bread

Perfect for scooping up any leftover vinaigrette.

Cucumber Yogurt Dip with Pita Chips

Adds a cool, creamy side for texture variety.

Sparkling Citrus Water

A refreshing drink that mirrors the orange vinaigrette.

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Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If this feta and cranberry penne salad hit the spot, explore more vibrant salad recipes from our kitchen:

• The Ultimate Italian Grinder Salad for a deli-inspired hearty bowl.
• Strawberry Spinach Salad if you crave fruity freshness.
• Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup for a warm, spiced option.
• Amazing Shrimp Pasta Salad if seafood is your thing.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap the pecans for almonds? Try a different leafy green? I’m always excited to hear your creative twists.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes on ChefAlchemy’s Recipes and find your next go-to for vibrant eating: https://www.pinterest.com/chefalchemy/

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