Greek Orzo Salad

This Greek Orzo Salad is a colorful and nutritious dish that brings the flavors of Greece right to your table. The combination of tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette creates a delightful harmony of tastes and textures. Perfect for summer picnics or quick weeknight dinners, this salad is not only refreshing but also easy to prepare, making it a must-try for any food lover.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking time required.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the salad) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g of fat, 33g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein. This is based on standard ingredient measurements.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Begin by cooking the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
4. Add the cooled orzo to the bowl with the vegetables.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
7. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and sliced olives.
8. Gently mix in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
9. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
10. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily customize this Greek Orzo Salad by substituting ingredients. For instance, quinoa or couscous can replace orzo for a gluten-free option. Additionally, feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini or artichokes based on your preference.

Serving and Pairings

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish. It also makes a great side dish for BBQs and picnics. Serve it with a side of tzatziki for a complete Mediterranean experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary. It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.

Cooking Mistakes

• Overcooking the orzo can make it mushy; cook until just al dente.
• Not cooling the orzo before mixing can wilt the vegetables.
• Skipping the chilling time may cause the flavors to be less vibrant.
• Using too much dressing can overwhelm the salad.
• Forgetting to season can lead to bland flavors.

Helpful Tips

• Use a mix of colorful vegetables for a visually appealing dish.
• Fresh herbs enhance the flavor; try adding basil or dill.
• Make the salad a day in advance for better flavor integration.
• Adjust the acidity of the dressing to your taste preference.

FAQs

Can I make Greek Orzo Salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just ensure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.

Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat, making it unsuitable for gluten-free diets. However, gluten-free orzo options made from rice or corn are available.

Can I add protein to the salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions to make the salad more filling and nutritious.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

The salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using vegan feta or simply omit it. Crumbled tofu can also be a good substitute for texture and protein.

Conclusion

Greek Orzo Salad is a vibrant and versatile dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors. Whether served as a main course or a side, this salad is sure to impress. With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, it’s a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy the refreshing crunch and zest of this delightful dish!

Greek Orzo Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Greek Orzo Salad featuring tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, perfect for summer meals.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Greek

Keyword: Greek salad, orzo salad, healthy recipes, Mediterranean, summer salads

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 bell pepper red, yellow, or green, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 1 cucumber diced
• 1/2 red onion finely chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
• 1/4 cup black olives sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the orzo and rinse it under cold water to cool.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
• Add the cooled orzo to the bowl with the vegetables.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
• Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
• Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and sliced olives.
• Gently mix in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
• Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
• Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 2g