Description

Need a quick and satisfying dish that feels fresh but fills you up? This Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a beautiful balance of flavor and nutrition. It’s a go-to for busy days when you want a healthy snack, light lunch, or even a bright side for dinner. With chewy pasta, peppery arugula, tangy feta, and a citrusy vinaigrette made from fresh orange juice, it’s vibrant and delicious. This easy recipe is perfect for food prep or impressing guests. Great for dinner ideas, quick meals, or summer picnic food.

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta

3 cups arugula

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/3 cup chopped toasted pecans

1/4 cup fresh orange juice

1 tsp orange zest

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp honey

1/3 cup olive oil

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water. Let cool.

2. In a bowl, whisk orange juice, zest, mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

3. Toast chopped pecans in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.

4. In a large bowl, mix pasta, arugula, cranberries, pecans, and feta.

5. Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

6. Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Use baby spinach instead of arugula if preferred for a milder flavor.

Store vinaigrette separately if making ahead to keep greens fresh.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Tossed
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 420
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 290mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: healthy salad, pasta salad, quick lunch, easy dinner, vegetarian, orange vinaigrette