Looking for a salad that satisfies without weighing you down? This Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is the answer to your lunch or light dinner cravings. It offers a delightful balance of tangy, sweet, nutty, and creamy flavors with every bite. Fresh arugula lays the base, penne pasta gives heartiness, and toppings like feta cheese, dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans bring the contrast that makes it irresistible.

The homemade orange vinaigrette is what ties it all together. Bursting with citrusy brightness and a hint of honeyed sweetness, it complements the richness of the feta and the chewiness of the cranberries. Whether you’re prepping this ahead for a picnic or throwing it together last minute, it’s a stunning crowd-pleaser that feels as good as it tastes.

What Kind of Penne Should I Use?

For this recipe, regular penne or whole wheat penne works well. Whole wheat adds extra fiber and a slightly nuttier taste that complements the pecans and cranberries beautifully. Gluten-free penne is also a great option if needed—just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds its shape and texture.

Ingredients for the Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Penne Pasta
The base of the salad. It provides the perfect chewy texture to soak up the vinaigrette.

Fresh Arugula
Peppery and crisp, arugula adds a vibrant contrast and fresh bite that lightens the dish.

Feta Cheese
Creamy and tangy, feta brings richness and a salty finish that ties in all the flavors.

Dried Cranberries
Sweet and slightly tart, they add chewiness and beautiful bursts of red throughout the salad.

Pecans
Toasted for extra depth and crunch, pecans balance the soft textures with a nutty, earthy bite.

Orange Juice & Zest
Key to the vinaigrette, orange juice offers citrusy sweetness while zest boosts the aroma.

Olive Oil
The smooth base of the vinaigrette that carries all the flavors.

Honey
Balances acidity and brings a subtle floral sweetness to the dressing.

Dijon Mustard
Adds body to the vinaigrette and a gentle kick to balance the sweetness.

Salt & Black Pepper
Seasoning essentials to round out the taste profile.

How To Make the Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Boil your penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for about 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they smell fragrant and start to brown. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Make the Orange Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad Base

On a large platter or in a salad bowl, add a generous layer of fresh arugula. Scatter the cooled penne pasta over the top.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and the toasted pecans evenly over the salad. Drizzle with the orange vinaigrette just before serving.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Toss gently if desired, or leave layered for presentation. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

How to Serve and Store Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad

This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for potlucks, lunchboxes, or light dinners. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or salmon if you’re looking to add protein.

To store, keep the dressing separate from the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If already dressed, the salad will last about 1–2 days before the arugula starts to wilt. For the best texture, only dress what you plan to eat immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap penne for bowtie, rotini, or fusilli. Just be sure it has grooves or ridges to hold the vinaigrette.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prep the pasta, vinaigrette, and toppings in advance and assemble right before serving for peak freshness.

What can I use instead of arugula?

Spinach, spring mix, or kale are great alternatives. Each offers a slightly different texture and taste, so choose based on your preference.

Is there a vegan option?

Yes! Swap feta for a plant-based cheese or use nutritional yeast flakes for a cheesy element without dairy.

Can I add protein?

Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even roasted turkey slices are great protein options to turn this salad into a full meal.

How do I make the vinaigrette creamier?

Whisk in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a dash of tahini to give the dressing a creamy twist.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Healthy Feta and Cranberry Penne Salad, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Grilled Peach and Honey Mustard Dressing for a smoky-sweet fruity flair.
Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad if you want bold flavor in every bite.
Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake for a brunch-style twist on wholesome ingredients.
Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad that brings creamy comfort to your table.
Summer Perfect Watermelon Cucumber Salad for light and cooling refreshment.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast the pecans or add your own spin with goat cheese? Maybe you tried a different vinaigrette?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other eat better and brighter.

For more fresh and flavorful recipes like this, follow me on Pinterest: Life with Jam.