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Orzo Salad
25min
Total Time
4 people
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost
280 kcal
Calories
Orzo salad is a delightful and versatile dish that showcases the beauty of Mediterranean flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
4
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
2
Add the orzo pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3
In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
4
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5
Add the cooked orzo to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over the top.
6
Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7
Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Kitchen Tools
- Medium saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for dressing
- Whisk
Pro Tips
For added flavor, use fresh herbs like basil or mint.
Let the salad chill to meld the flavors better.
Feel free to add grilled vegetables or protein for a more filling dish.
Troubleshooting
If the salad seems dry, add more dressing.
For overly salty salad, add more diced vegetables to balance the flavors.
Recipe Variations
Add cooked chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
Incorporate roasted vegetables for a warm salad variant.
Use quinoa instead of orzo for a gluten-free option.
Healthy Alternatives
Substitute whole wheat orzo for a healthier option.
Use avocado instead of feta for a creamy texture.
Add more vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
Serve alongside pita bread and hummus as a light lunch.
Nutrition Facts
280
Calories
8g
Protein
38g
Carbs
12g
Fat
3g
Fiber
3g
Sugar
300mg
Sodium
20mg
Cholesterol
Dietary Info
Vegetarian
Garnish Ideas
Sprinkle with additional feta cheese or fresh herbs before serving.
Add lemon wedges for a zesty touch.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Add a little extra dressing before serving leftovers to refresh flavors.
Leftover Ideas
Use leftover orzo salad as a filling for wraps or pitas.
Transform it into a warm pasta bake by mixing with cheese and baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the orzo can make it mushy; aim for al dente.
Not seasoning the salad adequately may lead to bland flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make orzo salad ahead of time?
Yes, orzo salad can be made a day in advance; just keep it refrigerated and add extra dressing before serving.
Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is not gluten-free as it's made from semolina. For gluten-free options, use quinoa or gluten-free pasta.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
You can use goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free salad.
Can I add fruits to the orzo salad?
Absolutely! Adding fruits like diced apples or dried cranberries can add a sweet touch.
How can I make this salad spicier?
Consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Reviews
Jessica
Apr 18, 2026
This orzo salad was refreshing and perfect for my summer picnic!
Adam
Apr 10, 2026
Easy to make and tastes delightful, but I would add more olives next time.
Sarah
Apr 17, 2026
So flavorful and vibrant! My friends loved it.
Emily
Apr 10, 2026
Great recipe! I enjoyed the freshness of the ingredients.
Michael
Apr 13, 2026
Tasted good, but I expected a bit more seasoning.
Sophia
Apr 13, 2026
This has become my go-to potluck dish!
David
May 4, 2026
Easy to prepare and very filling!
Olivia
Apr 13, 2026
Light, delicious, and healthy! Highly recommend.
Ethan
Apr 20, 2026
I added grilled chicken, and it was fantastic!
Isabella
Apr 23, 2026
Perfect blend of flavors. A must-try recipe!
Liam
Apr 14, 2026
Good, but I think it needs more dressing.
Mia
Apr 16, 2026
A quick and tasty side dish for any meal.
Aiden
Apr 21, 2026
Loved the combination of textures!
Charlotte
Apr 16, 2026
A crowd-pleaser at our family gatherings.
Charlotte
May 1, 2026
I made this for a barbecue, and it was a hit!
