Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I always return to this salad because:

The bright orange vinaigrette elevates the dish with citrusy tang and subtle sweetness
The combination of salty feta, chewy cranberries, and toasted walnuts brings perfect balance of texture and flavor .
It’s quick and easy—ready in about 20 minutes and holds up well for next-day leftovers

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz penne pasta
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional)
2 cups baby spinach
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion

Orange Vinaigrette

¼ cup fresh orange juice
2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

directions

Cook pasta: Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside
Make vinaigrette: Whisk orange juice, olive oil, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth
Assemble salad: Combine pasta, feta, cranberries, walnuts, spinach, and red onion in a large bowl
Toss & serve: Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately or chill 15–20 minutes to meld flavors

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~10 minutes
Total time: ~20 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal
Green swap: Use kale or arugula instead of spinach for a peppery bite
Cheese options: Try goat cheese or blue cheese for a more pronounced tang
Nut alternatives: Almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds work beautifully in place of walnuts
Citrus variation: Swap orange juice for grapefruit or lemon for different brightness

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta absorbs dressing over time—refresh with a splash of orange juice before serving

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Yes, but fresh orange juice gives more vibrant, bright flavor .

Does this pasta salad hold up for picnics?

Absolutely—it travels well and tastes even better after chilling for 15–30 minutes

Is it gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by swapping in GF penne pasta and ensuring all add-ins are safe.

Can I prep ahead?

Yes—cook pasta and make dressing in advance. Assemble shortly before serving for the freshest texture.

How can I bulk it up?

Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or add-ins like chickpeas, quinoa, or roasted veggies

Conclusion

This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is one of my favorite go-to dishes—bright, fresh, and full of flavor with no fuss. It’s versatile enough for lunch, sides, or entertaining, and I always feel good knowing it’s easy, delicious, and visually beautiful.

Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette