Feta Lemon Penne Salad is a bright, zesty dish that balances the tang of fresh lemon with the creamy saltiness of crumbled feta.  

The gluten free penne provides a sturdy, chewy base that soaks up the citrusy dressing, while fresh spinach adds a tender, earthy contrast.

This recipe yields about 4 cups.

Briny capers lend little bursts of bold flavor throughout, and fresh herbs like parsley or basil bring a fragrant green lift.

Printable Recipe Card with a Full List of Ingredients and Instructions is Located at the Bottom of the Post.

Be sure to read through the entire post so that you don’t miss out on any important tips and tricks!

To begin making Feta Lemon Penne Salad I prepared about 2 cups of  gluten free penne according to package directions. 

While the pasta was cooking I chopped up some fresh spinach and prepared the lemon zest.

I also chopped up some fresh basil.

 

 

Once the pasta was cooked I drained and rinsed it before transferring it to a large bowl.

Next I added everything to the pasta except the Italian dressing and lemon juice.

After stirring the salad ingredients together well, I squeezed the juice from half a lemon on top of the salad.

Then I poured on the Italian dressing and gave the salad another stir.

After a quick stir to coat the ingredients in the salad dressing it was ready to serve!

Feta Lemon Penne Salad is pleasing to the eye as well as the palate.  It is a great dish any time of the year.  You could also add your favourite protein to make it a full meal.

Light yet satisfying, it’s the kind of salad that feels equally at home at a picnic or a summer dinner table.

Bursts of flavour and texture are in every bite!

Printable Recipe Card with a Full List of Ingredients and Instructions is Located at the Bottom of the Post.

More Side Salads You Will Enjoy…

 

PRINTABLE VERSION OF THE RECIPE CAN BE FOUND AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make this Feta Lemon Penne Salad:

• 2 cups uncooked gluten free penne 
• water
• salt
• 2 cups chopped spinach leaves 
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp capers
• juice of half a lemon
• 1/4 cup gluten free Italian salad dressing

How to Make Feta Lemon Penne Salad:

1. Use the penne, water and salt to prepare the gluten free pasta according to package directions or until cooked to desired doneness.
2. While pasta cooking cut up the spinach and the fresh basil.
3. Zest the lemon and cut the lemon in half.
4. When pasta cooked drain and rinse.
5. Add pasta to mixing bowl. 
6. Add all the ingredients except the lemon juice and salad dressing.  Stir to combine.
7. Squeeze the lemon juice onto the salad and pour on the salad dressing.  Stir to combine.
8. Serve and enjoy!
9.  

 

FAQ:

What should I serve with feta lemon penne salad?

Feta lemon penne salad has that zesty, slightly tangy thing going on, so you can pair it with a few different types of sides depending on the vibe you want. Here are some great options:

If you want protein:

• Grilled chicken – Lightly seasoned or with a Mediterranean marinade (lemon, oregano, garlic).

• Salmon – Baked or grilled with dill and lemon.

• Shrimp skewers – Grilled with a little chili, garlic, and olive oil.

If you want a carb-y side:

• Warm gluten free pita bread or naan – Perfect for scooping up the salad.

• Gluten free garlic bread – Adds a buttery, toasty contrast.

If you’re leaning fresh and light:

• Cucumber tomato salad – Crisp and refreshing, maybe with red onion and a vinegar-based dressing.

• Greek salad – Similar flavors, but adds olives, bell peppers, and crunch.

• Arugula salad with balsamic glaze – Peppery and sweet, a good contrast to the creamy feta.

For something roasted or warm:

• Roasted veggies – Think zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.

• Stuffed grape leaves (dolmas) – If you want to lean hard into the Mediterranean theme.

 

How do I store feta lemon penne salad?

To store feta lemon penne salad properly and keep it fresh:

Refrigerator Storage

• Container: Place the salad in an airtight container.

• Temperature: Keep it at or below 40°F (4°C).

• Shelf Life: It should last 3–4 days in the fridge.

Before Storing Tips

• If you haven’t mixed in the feta or dressing yet, store them separately and combine just before serving for the best texture.

• Pasta can absorb dressing over time, so you might want to refresh it with a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving again.

❄️ Freezing?

Not recommended. Freezing may cause the pasta to go mushy and the feta to change texture (it can become crumbly and grainy).