If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, you have to try this spectacular Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s a colorful celebration of textures and tastes—creamy feta, chewy cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and fresh spinach—all brought together with a bright, zesty lemon vinaigrette that wakes up every bite. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but a wonderfully refreshing and satisfying meal or side that feels special yet comes together in a snap.

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients pack so much flavor and character in this salad. Each element plays a role—from the nutty rigatoni to the sweet-tart cranberries and tangy feta, making every mouthful exciting and fresh.

12 oz rigatoni pasta: Choose rigatoni for its perfect tube shape that holds onto the dressing beautifully.
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Adds a creamy, salty punch that balances the sweetness of the cranberries.
1/2 cup dried cranberries: Brings a chewy sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the other ingredients.
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped: Provides a satisfying crunch and a rich, earthy flavor.
2 cups fresh spinach leaves: Fresh greens add color, nutrition, and a slight earthiness.
1/4 cup olive oil: The base of the dressing, providing smooth richness without overpowering.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brings brightness and a zesty kick that lifts the entire salad.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a subtle tang to the vinaigrette.
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: Balances acidity with a hint of natural sweetness.
1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses a mild savory warmth into the dressing.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and bring all flavors together.

How to Make Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by cooking the rigatoni until it is just al dente, about 10 minutes or according to the package. The rigatoni tubes are incredible at catching the vinaigrette and ingredients, but they must be tender, not mushy. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Lemon Vinaigrette

While the pasta is cooling, it’s time to prepare the delicious dressing. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until the vinaigrette is fully emulsified, glossy, and ready to coat your salad with bright flavor.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss together the cooled rigatoni, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and fresh spinach leaves. These ingredients create a dreamy combination of creamy, crunchy, tart, and fresh elements that make each forkful a party.

Step 4: Dress and Toss the Salad

Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad mixture and gently toss everything together. Be sure to coat all the rigatoni and mix-ins evenly so every bite gets that perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

Step 5: Serve or Chill

You can serve this salad immediately for a fresh, vibrant experience or pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle and develop even more depth. Both ways work beautifully depending on your preference and timing.

How to Serve Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe

Garnishes

Adding some extra garnishes can really elevate the presentation and taste. Consider sprinkling toasted walnuts on top or adding a few fresh lemon zest curls for a pop of zestiness. A few extra spinach leaves or a light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper makes it look as gorgeous as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This salad is versatile enough to stand on its own or pair beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even alongside a hearty soup. The freshness and zing provide balance to richer or heavier mains, making it a fantastic companion for many meals.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleaser, serve this salad in a large, colorful bowl or individual mason jars for a stylish touch. You can also layer the ingredients in a trifle dish to showcase the vibrant colors, then toss just before serving for a wow-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making it a perfect make-ahead lunch or side.

Freezing

Freezing this salad is not recommended because the texture of the pasta, spinach, and dressing will change and become mushy upon thawing. Fresh is best to maintain that delightful chew and crunch.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not advised. If you want a warm pasta dish, reserve some plain rigatoni before tossing with the salad ingredients and enjoy that warm.

FAQs

Can I substitute the rigatoni with another pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, farfalle, or even small shells will work nicely, but rigatoni is ideal for catching the dressing and mix-ins inside its tubes.

Is there a good vegan version of this salad?

Yes, simply swap feta for a plant-based cheese, omit honey or use maple syrup, and you have a vegan-friendly version that still bursts with flavor.

How long does the lemon vinaigrette keep?

The lemon vinaigrette can be stored in the fridge in a sealed jar for up to one week. Just give it a good shake before using.

Can I add protein to make this a complete meal?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tofu cubes are excellent protein additions to make this salad more filling.

What wine pairs well with Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe?

A crisp, light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the salad’s brightness and tang beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavors and textures that never get boring, make sure to try the Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe soon. It’s effortless to prepare, looks stunning, and makes for a refreshing and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether for a casual lunch or a festive gathering, this salad is pure joy on a plate.