Description
This vibrant Orzo Salad Recipe is the perfect dish for any occasion, effortlessly blending refreshing flavors with nutritious ingredients. Ideal as a side dish or a filling vegetarian lunch, this salad shines at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. Featuring colorful vegetables, protein-packed chickpeas, and creamy feta cheese, it’s both delicious and healthy. The best part? It can be made ahead of time; simply toss in fresh herbs right before serving to enhance its flavor. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
- 2 Persian cucumbers
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 4 ounces feta cheese
- ⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup Kalamata olives
- Fresh basil or mint leaves
- Greek Salad Dressing (homemade or store-bought)
- Red wine vinegar
- Lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until slightly past al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil; cool on a baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix together Greek Salad Dressing, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, and sea salt.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo with cucumbers, tomatoes, chickpeas, feta cheese, red onion, and olives. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
- Add half the fresh herbs and season with black pepper. Garnish with remaining herbs before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Customize your salad by adding seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. For an extra protein boost, consider grilled chicken or shrimp. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor melding.