Deliciously Tangy Feta Cranberry Penne Salad

Introduction

Hello, fellow food lovers! I’m Jenny, the creator behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s not only delicious but also wonderfully refreshing: Feta Cranberry Penne Salad. This salad perfectly captures the essence of seasonal ingredients and is a fabulous way to bring smiles to your family’s faces.

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be. This salad is easy to whip up, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones in the kitchen. Plus, the tangy feta combined with the sweet cranberries creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. So, let’s dive into this tasty recipe!

Ingredients

To make your Feta Cranberry Penne Salad, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients are not only easy to find but also perfect for a family gathering or a light weeknight dinner. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your family’s preferences!

Timing

Preparing this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is a breeze! Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing:

• Cooking the penne pasta: 10-12 minutes
• Chopping ingredients: 5-10 minutes
• Mixing everything together: 5 minutes

In total, you can have this delicious salad ready in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make your Feta Cranberry Penne Salad? Let’s get started with these simple steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

While the pasta cooks, chop your spinach, red onion, and walnuts. Set them aside in a large mixing bowl. The vibrant colors of these ingredients will make your salad even more appealing!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Once your pasta has cooled, add it to the mixing bowl with the chopped ingredients. Then, sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese and dried cranberries. They add a delightful sweetness that balances the tanginess of the feta.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over your salad and toss everything gently until well combined. Tasting as you go is key—you want it to be just right!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is ready to serve! You can plate it up for a lovely presentation or keep it in the bowl for a casual family meal. Enjoy the fresh flavors and the joy of sharing this dish with your loved ones!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for one serving of this delightful salad (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 2g

This salad is not only delicious but also packs a nutritional punch! It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make some healthier swaps, consider the following alternatives:

• Use whole wheat penne pasta for added fiber.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for some of the olive oil in the dressing for a creamy texture.
• Try adding more veggies, such as bell peppers or cucumbers, for extra crunch and vitamins.

These alternatives can help lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is versatile and pairs well with various dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Offer it as a side dish at your next barbecue or picnic.
• Pack it for lunch with a protein source like chickpeas or turkey slices.

The options are endless, making it a great addition to any table!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like this, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy salad. Make sure to cook until al dente!
• Not letting the pasta cool properly before mixing can cause the feta to melt.
• Skipping the salt in the water when cooking pasta can lead to bland flavor overall.

A little care in these areas will ensure your salad turns out perfectly every time!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store your Feta Cranberry Penne Salad:

• Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
• Avoid freezing, as the texture of the feta and pasta may change once thawed.

These tips will help you enjoy this salad long after you’ve made it!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Feta Cranberry Penne Salad is a delightful dish that brings together flavors and textures in a wonderfully satisfying way. It’s straightforward to make, making it perfect for busy families like mine.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, this salad is bound to impress. I hope you give it a try and share it with your family and friends!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If feta isn’t your thing, goat cheese or fresh mozzarella can work beautifully in this salad!

Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would be fantastic additions to make it more filling.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me today! Cooking and sharing recipes like this Feta Cranberry Penne Salad brings me so much joy. I encourage you to take your time in the kitchen, involve your loved ones, and most importantly, savor each bite. Happy cooking, and see you next time at Recipes Cookery!

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