Amazing Mediterranean Orzo Salad for a Delicious Feast

Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a vibrant dish that dances on your palate with flavors of the sun-kissed Mediterranean. Imagine a bowl brimming with plump orzo, colorful veggies, and a drizzle of zesty dressing that makes your taste buds sing. Mediterranean Pasta Salad.

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Picture this: a sunny afternoon picnic where friends gather, laughter fills the air, and this Mediterranean Orzo Salad makes its grand entrance. Greek Tzatziki Sauce It’s not just food; it’s a celebration of good times and great flavors.

I remember the first time I made this Mediterranean Orzo Salad for my family’s summer barbecue; their reactions were priceless! Everyone kept asking for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes recipe.

• Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta shape is perfect for salads, soaking up flavors while maintaining a delightful bite.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

• Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers add crunch and balance to the salad’s richness.

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a nice kick; soaking in water can tame its sharpness if desired.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang; opt for high-quality cheese for the best flavor.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the dish with color and freshness; feel free to substitute with basil or mint.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates flavor with acidity; bottled juice won’t do it justice. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken.

• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while adding richness to the salad.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste; use kosher salt for more control over seasoning levels.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Orzo: Begin by bringing salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 cup of orzo and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo cooks, chop 1 cup each of cherry tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice half a red onion if you enjoy its sharpness.

Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, juice from one lemon, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning according to taste; it should be bright and zesty.

Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine drained orzo, chopped vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Drizzle dressing over everything and toss gently until well combined.

Let it Chill Out: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld beautifully.

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad can be enjoyed straight from the fridge but tastes even better after some chill time! Whether you’re hosting brunch or packing lunch for work, this dish brings smiles all around.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by cooking the orzo according to package instructions, then sauté the veggies while it simmers. Toss everything together just before serving for optimal freshness and flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers. Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables Add crumbled feta or olives for an extra punch of Mediterranean flair!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to revive its flavors.

Cooking this Mediterranean Orzo Salad always reminds me of summer gatherings where laughter and good food flowed freely. Friends often ask for my secret ingredient, but I just wink and say it’s love! For more inspiration, check out this helpful cooking tips recipe.

FAQ

What can I substitute for orzo in this salad?

You can use quinoa, couscous, or even small pasta shapes as alternatives.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight.

Is this Mediterranean Orzo Salad gluten-free?

Regular orzo contains gluten; however, gluten-free orzo is widely available at many grocery stores.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Mediterranean Orzo Salad

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• Author: Aliza
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a refreshing dish bursting with vibrant flavors and colors. This delightful mix of orzo, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing makes it perfect for picnics, gatherings, or a quick weeknight meal. Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite!

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook orzo: Boil salted water in a pot, add orzo, and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Prepare veggies: Dice cherry tomatoes and cucumber; slice red onion.
3. Mix dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Combine: In a large bowl, toss cooked orzo with vegetables, feta cheese, parsley, and dressing until well mixed.
5. Chill: Cover salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg