Orzo Salad

Orzo salad is a delightful dish that combines the chewy texture of orzo pasta with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that make it a perfect side dish or a light meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick lunch, orzo salad is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time for the orzo is about 10 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving of orzo salad (approximately 1 cup) contains about 250 calories, 10g of protein, 15g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 5g of fiber. This nutritional information is based on one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. In a large bowl, combine the diced red bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
5. Add the cooled orzo to the vegetable mixture.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss to combine.
8. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
9. Adjust seasoning if necessary and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
10. Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute orzo with quinoa or couscous for a gluten-free option. Additionally, feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability, such as adding spinach or roasted zucchini.

Serving and Pairings

Orzo salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or as a part of a mezze platter. It also makes a great side dish for picnics, potlucks, or barbecues.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. It can be frozen, but the texture of the vegetables may change upon thawing.

Cooking Mistakes

• Overcooking the orzo can make it mushy; aim for al dente.
• Not rinsing the orzo after cooking can lead to clumping.
• Using too much dressing can overpower the salad; start with less.
• Forgetting to season the salad can make it bland; taste as you go.
• Using wilted or old vegetables can affect freshness; always use fresh produce.

Helpful Tips

• Chill the salad before serving for better flavor integration.
• Customize with your favorite herbs like basil or mint.
• For extra crunch, add toasted nuts or seeds.
• Use lemon zest in the dressing for added brightness.

FAQs

Can I make orzo salad ahead of time?

Yes, orzo salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed after the flavors have melded together, so preparing it a few hours in advance is ideal.

What can I add to make it a complete meal?

To make orzo salad a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or roasted vegetables. These additions will provide protein and make it more filling.

Is orzo salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Orzo salad is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the refrigerator and can be portioned for easy lunches throughout the week.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free alternative, depending on your dietary needs.

How long can I store orzo salad?

Orzo salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the best taste and texture, consume it within this time frame.

Conclusion

Orzo salad is a versatile and delightful dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it serves as a perfect side or a light meal. Whether enjoyed at a picnic or a dinner table, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Orzo Salad

A vibrant and refreshing orzo salad combining tender orzo pasta with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, perfect for any occasion.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keyword: orzo salad, Mediterranean salad, healthy recipes, summer dishes

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1 cucumber diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 1/4 red onion finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
• In a large bowl, combine the diced red bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
• Add the cooled orzo to the vegetable mixture.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss to combine.
• Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
• Adjust seasoning if necessary and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 5g