Creamy Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a refreshing yet comforting dish that balances creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors beautifully. The salty feta contrasts perfectly with chewy cranberries, while the lemon vinaigrette adds brightness that keeps the salad light and lively. It is the kind of recipe that works equally well as a side dish or a satisfying main, especially when you want something flavorful without feeling heavy.

I started making this salad when I wanted a pasta dish that felt fresh enough for warmer days but still comforting enough for year-round meals. After a few tests, I found that rigatoni was ideal because it holds the creamy dressing so well. Letting the salad rest for a short time before serving allows the flavors to come together beautifully. It is simple, dependable, and always well received at gatherings.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rigatoni pasta
Rigatoni is perfect for this salad because its ridges catch the creamy feta dressing and vinaigrette evenly.

Feta cheese
Feta provides creaminess and saltiness, forming the backbone of the salad’s flavor.

Dried cranberries
Cranberries add sweetness and chewiness, balancing the tangy feta and lemon.

Red onion
Thinly sliced red onion adds sharpness and a gentle crunch that brightens the dish.

Fresh parsley
Parsley brings freshness and color, preventing the salad from feeling heavy.

Olive oil
Olive oil forms the base of the lemon vinaigrette and adds richness.

Fresh lemon juice
Lemon juice gives the salad its bright, clean finish and balances the creamy elements.

Lemon zest
Zest intensifies the citrus flavor without adding extra acidity.

Honey
Honey softens the sharpness of the lemon and rounds out the vinaigrette.

Salt and black pepper
Simple seasoning enhances all the flavors and brings balance.

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and allow the pasta to cool slightly.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, red onion, and parsley. Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

For a creamier texture, lightly mash some of the feta into the dressing as you toss. Refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people as a side dish or 4 as a main.
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, cooking time is 12 minutes, and chilling time is 20 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish is best served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating. Stir gently before serving to refresh the texture.

Variations and Customizations

Creamy Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad is easy to adapt to different tastes. For added protein, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or toasted pine nuts work well. If you prefer extra crunch, add sliced almonds or walnuts.

You can substitute cranberries with dried cherries or raisins for a different sweetness profile. For a more herb-forward version, add fresh dill or basil alongside the parsley.

If you enjoy stronger flavors, a small amount of Dijon mustard can be added to the vinaigrette. For a lighter version, reduce the feta slightly and increase the lemon juice. Each variation keeps the salad balanced while offering a new direction.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This pasta salad provides a balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. It is suitable for vegetarian diets and can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Pasta texture
Cook rigatoni just to al dente so it holds its shape after chilling.

Flavor balance
Taste the vinaigrette before mixing to ensure the right balance of sweet and acidic.

Creamy finish
Mash a small portion of feta into the dressing for extra creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after resting in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, penne or fusilli work well.

Is this salad served cold?

Yes, it is best served chilled or at room temperature.

Can I make it vegan?

Use a plant-based feta alternative and maple syrup instead of honey.

How do I prevent dry pasta salad?

Add a little extra olive oil or lemon juice before serving.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, cucumbers or spinach are great additions.

Is feta very salty?

Feta is salty, so season carefully.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

Yes, reduce the honey slightly if preferred.

Does lemon zest make a difference?

Yes, it adds bright citrus aroma without extra acidity.

Is this suitable for potlucks?

Yes, it travels well and holds up nicely.

Conclusion

Creamy Feta and Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a fresh, balanced dish that combines comfort and brightness in every bite. With its creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and lively citrus dressing, it is both simple and impressive. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a make-ahead meal, this salad is a reliable recipe that delivers flavor and versatility year-round.

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