Description
For the Salad:
1 cup orzo pasta, cooked and cooled
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, red onion, olives, and parsley.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking, and let it cool completely.
2. While the orzo cools, prepare your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the fresh parsley.
3. In a small mixing bowl, combine all dressing ingredients: olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified.
4. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled orzo, prepared vegetables, crumbled feta, and sliced Kalamata olives.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
6. For best results, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a vibrant, stand-alone lunch or as a stellar side dish. It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, or simple lemon-herb fish. For a summer gathering, present it on a large platter garnished with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges. It also travels well, making it an ideal choice for picnics, potlucks, or packed lunches.
How-to Summary
To make Mediterranean Orzo Salad: cook and cool orzo pasta. Chop fresh vegetables and combine them with the orzo, feta, and olives. Whisk together a simple red wine vinaigrette with oregano and garlic, then toss it with the salad. Chill before serving to enhance the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of orzo?
Other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells work well. For a gluten-free option, use quinoa or rice.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Ensure you cook the orzo al dente and rinse it thoroughly with cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.
Can I add protein to make it a main course?
Yes. Grilled shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, or canned chickpeas are excellent additions for a more filling meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some dressing, so you may wish to refresh it with a small drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice before serving again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding the dressing to warm orzo, which causes the pasta to absorb too much dressing and become soggy. Always ensure the pasta is completely cooled.
- Over-salting. Remember that both the feta cheese and Kalamata olives contribute significant saltiness. Taste before adding extra salt.
- Not letting the salad rest. Skipping the 30-minute chill time means the flavors won’t have a chance to fully combine.
- Using low-quality feta. A block of feta in brine, crumbled by hand, provides far superior flavor and texture than pre-crumbled varieties.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a celebration of fresh, bright flavors and simple preparation. It’s a reliable recipe that delivers a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a perfect pasta salad every time. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean right from your own kitchen.
