Orzo Salad Recipe

Orzo salad is a delightful and versatile dish that makes for the perfect side or light meal any time of the year. This Mediterranean-inspired salad features orzo pasta, which resembles rice but is made from wheat flour, and provides a delightful chewy texture. Complemented by a mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing, orzo salad is not only vibrant in color but also rich in flavors. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients such as grilled chicken, feta cheese, or even olives for an added Mediterranean flair. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing lunch option, this orzo salad is sure to impress your family and friends with its simplicity and taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the orzo and set aside to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooled orzo to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is well combined.
5. If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and mix lightly.
6. Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Enjoy this refreshing orzo salad as a delightful side dish or a light entrée!

Nutritional Information

Tools Needed

• Large pot for boiling orzo
• Colander for draining orzo
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk for dressing
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• Cutting board
• Serving spoon or spatula

Tips for Preparing the Recipe

• Cooking the Orzo: Make sure to salt the water when boiling orzo, as this will help enhance the flavor of the pasta. Follow package instructions for cooking time and avoid overcooking, which can lead to mushy pasta.
• Chilling: After draining, rinse the orzo under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. This also prevents the orzo from sticking together.
• Selecting Vegetables: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the salad. Bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion are great choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
• Dressing: For a zesty kick, add freshly squeezed lemon juice to the dressing. You can also incorporate herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasonings. Sometimes a bit more salt or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the flavors.
• Customization: Feel free to include protein sources like grilled chicken, feta cheese, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.

Skill Level

Intermediate: This recipe requires basic cooking skills such as boiling pasta and chopping vegetables, making it accessible yet rewarding for home chefs.

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Salad, Side Dish
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

For an attractive presentation, serve the orzo salad in a large bowl or platter, garnished with extra herbs or a lemon wedge to provide a splash of color. Consider serving it chilled or at room temperature. For individual servings, use mason jars for a portable option with chic appeal. Adding a sprinkling of toasted nuts or seeds on top can provide texture contrast and visual interest.

Storage Conditions

Store any leftover orzo salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits. However, if using ingredients prone to wilting, such as greens, consider adding them at the time of serving to maintain freshness. Avoid freezing as the texture may become mushy upon thawing.

Health Benefits

Orzo salad is rich in nutrients essential for a balanced diet. Whole grain orzo provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, along with fiber that promotes digestive health. The inclusion of fresh vegetables contributes vitamins and antioxidants, reducing inflammation and supporting immune function. Healthy fats from olive oil enhance heart health and provide satiety.

Recommendations for Vegans

This orzo salad can easily be made vegan by omitting any cheese or meat components. Opt for vegetable broth if a richer flavor is desired when cooking the orzo, and use maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing for sweetness if needed.

Similar Recipes

• Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
• Mediterranean Couscous Salad
• Pasta Primavera Salad
• Greek Chickpea Salad
• Cold Pasta Salad with Pesto and Peas