This Easy Mediterranean Orzo Salad is bright and fresh, featuring chewy orzo pasta, crunchy veggies, and zesty feta cheese. It’s like a party in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta is key for texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, quinoa is a great substitute. It adds a nice nutty flavor and has a similar chewy texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems provide sweetness. You can swap them with diced bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available.
Kalamata Olives: Their tangy flavor is essential. If you don’t have them, black olives or green olives are fine alternatives. Just keep in mind they will change the salad’s flavor slightly.
Feta Cheese: Feta is fantastic for that creamy tang. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, try using a plant-based feta or omit it altogether. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor if desired.
How Do I Cool Orzo Perfectly Without Sticking?
Cooking orzo so that it doesn’t become sticky is key. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with plenty of salted water. Just like pasta, orzo needs room to cook properly.
- Once it’s done, drain it immediately to stop the cooking process.
- Rinse the orzo under cold water. This helps remove excess starch, keeping it from clumping together.
- Spread the cooled orzo on a baking sheet to help it cool even faster, if you have time.
This method ensures your orzo stays separate and perfect for your salad!
Easy Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll be looking at around 45 minutes before you dig into this refreshing salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the orzo. Cook according to the package instructions—this typically takes around 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. Drain the orzo in a colander, then rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. This also helps keep it from sticking together. Make sure to drain it well after rinsing.
2. Mix the Vegetables and Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, halved Kalamata olives, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, and feta cheese. Gently mix everything together to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until it’s well combined. This simple dressing will add amazing flavors to your salad.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the orzo and vegetable mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, toss everything gently, making sure every ingredient gets coated with that tasty dressing.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your salad! If you feel it needs a little extra zing, feel free to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your taste.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the wonderful flavors to blend together. Serve your Mediterranean Orzo Salad chilled or at room temperature and enjoy it as a light lunch, side dish, or delicious picnic food!
Bon appétit! Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in this easy-to-make orzo salad.
FAQ
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the salad. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the package instructions for the best results.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This Mediterranean Orzo Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier!
Can I Add Protein to This Salad?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions if you want to boost the protein. Just toss in your desired protein during the mixing step to combine everything evenly.
What Else Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta or prefer a different flavor, goat cheese, crumbled ricotta, or even a vegan cheese can work well. Each will slightly change the taste, but they’ll still keep the salad delicious!
