Are you ready to indulge in a vibrant and refreshing Greek orzo salad? This delightful dish combines tender orzo pasta with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, making it an ideal choice for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch. Its colorful presentation and incredible taste will impress your friends and family, encouraging them to ask for seconds! Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a taste of Greece to your table.
Ingredients
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes for cooking the orzo.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe): approximately 320 calories, 15g fat, 36g carbohydrates, 10g protein, and 3g fiber. This nutritional information is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
2. Add the orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes).
3. While the orzo cooks, prepare the vegetables: chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and onion.
4. In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with olives and parsley.
5. Once the orzo is cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to cool.
6. Add the cooled orzo to the vegetable mixture.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
8. Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss gently to combine.
9. Crumble feta cheese over the salad and fold it in carefully.
10. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to customize your Greek orzo salad by substituting ingredients. For example, you can use quinoa instead of orzo for a gluten-free option or swap feta cheese for goat cheese. Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or artichokes can also add a unique twist.
Serving and Pairings
This Greek orzo salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or lamb. It also makes a great side dish for Mediterranean-style meals and is perfect for summer barbecues or picnics.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the vegetables and orzo may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the orzo can lead to a mushy texture; follow package instructions closely.
- Not rinsing the orzo can result in clumping.
- Using too much dressing can overwhelm the salad; start with less and adjust to taste.
- Skipping the chill time can diminish flavor development.
- Forgetting to season can lead to blandness; always taste before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with herbs like basil or mint for a unique twist.
- Add protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- To save time, prepare the ingredients in advance.
- Make it a day ahead for the flavors to meld beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make Greek orzo salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Greek orzo salad a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld. It’s a great make-ahead option for gatherings.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese or even mozzarella can work well as alternatives to feta, providing a milder flavor.
Is Greek orzo salad gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat and is not gluten-free. For a gluten-free option, substitute orzo with quinoa or a gluten-free pasta.
How long does Greek orzo salad last in the fridge?
Properly stored, Greek orzo salad can last up to 3 days in the fridge. However, it is best consumed fresh.
Can I add protein to Greek orzo salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added to make the salad more filling and nutritious.
Conclusion
Greek orzo salad is a delightful dish that showcases the flavors of the Mediterranean. With its colorful ingredients and refreshing taste, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this salad as a main dish or a side, and let the bright flavors transport you to a sunny Greek island!
Greek Orzo Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1/2 red onion finely chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
- Add the orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions.
- While the orzo cooks, prepare the vegetables: chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with olives and parsley.
- Once the orzo is cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Add the cooled orzo to the vegetable mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss gently to combine.
- Crumble feta cheese over the salad and fold it in carefully.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
