Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

When you’re looking for a side dish that’s light yet satisfying, festive yet effortless, this Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is exactly what you need. Bright, fresh, and full of texture, this pasta salad brings together salty feta, sweet cranberries, tender rigatoni, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette that ties everything together beautifully.

Unlike heavy, mayo-based pasta salads, this version feels refreshing and elegant. It works just as well for holiday gatherings as it does for potlucks, brunches, or make-ahead weekday meals. The lemon vinaigrette adds a burst of citrus that balances the richness of the feta, while cranberries provide pops of sweetness that make every bite interesting.

This is one of those dishes that disappears quickly at parties—not because it’s flashy, but because it’s perfectly balanced and incredibly easy to love.

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Why This Pasta Salad Works So Well

The beauty of this rigatoni salad lies in contrast. Rigatoni’s ridged shape catches the vinaigrette, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Feta adds creaminess and salt, cranberries bring sweetness and chew, and lemon vinaigrette brightens the entire dish.

It’s also incredibly adaptable. Serve it cold or at room temperature, pair it with roasted meats or vegetarian mains, and enjoy leftovers for days. It’s sturdy enough to travel and elegant enough for special occasions.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• Rigatoni pasta
• Baby spinach
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Dried cranberries
• Toasted walnuts or pecans

For the Lemon Vinaigrette

• Olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Dijon mustard
• Honey or maple syrup
• Salt
• Black pepper

Optional additions:

• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley or basil
• Roasted chicken
• Chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Cook rigatoni in well-salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water. Let cool completely.
2. Prepare the Vinaigrette
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
3. Assemble the Salad
   In a large bowl, combine cooled rigatoni, spinach, feta, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts.
4. Dress the Salad
   Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
5. Rest and Serve
   Let the salad rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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Tips for the Best Rigatoni Salad

• Salt the pasta water generously.
• Cool pasta fully before adding feta.
• Use block feta crumbled by hand for best texture.
• Add spinach just before serving if making ahead.
• Toss gently to avoid breaking the pasta.

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Make-Ahead Instructions

This salad is perfect for prepping ahead:

• Cook pasta up to 24 hours in advance.
• Make vinaigrette up to 3 days ahead.
• Assemble fully up to 6 hours before serving.

Store covered in the refrigerator and toss lightly before serving.

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Flavor Variations

Mediterranean Style: Add olives and cucumber.
Holiday Twist: Add orange zest and toasted almonds.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp.
Vegan Option: Swap feta for dairy-free feta or omit entirely.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve feta & cranberry rigatoni salad:

• Alongside roasted turkey or beef
• At holiday potlucks
• With grilled chicken or salmon
• As a light lunch or dinner side

It pairs beautifully with rich mains and festive spreads.

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Why Lemon Vinaigrette Makes All the Difference

Lemon vinaigrette brings brightness and acidity that cuts through rich ingredients. Its freshness lifts the entire dish, keeping it from feeling heavy while enhancing every individual component.

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Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving to refresh.

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Final Thoughts

This Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s simple, versatile, and effortlessly elegant—perfect for holidays, gatherings, or everyday meals that deserve a little extra brightness.