Description
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup fresh cranberries (or dried cranberries if preferred)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup baby spinach, chopped
¼ cup walnuts, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp orange juice
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside to cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper to create the citrus dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cranberries, crumbled feta, spinach, and walnuts.
Pour the citrus dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled salad. Enjoy this refreshing and vibrant salad!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 250 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Cranberry Orzo Salad every time.
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions (typically 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely in a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Dressing: While the orzo cools, make the citrus vinaigrette. In a small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and black pepper until the mixture is well emulsified.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: To the cooled orzo, add the fresh cranberries (if using dried, you can add them directly), chopped baby spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until the orzo is evenly coated and the ingredients are well distributed.
- Chill and Serve: For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the spinach to slightly wilt into the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in various settings. Serve it as a vibrant, stand-alone lunch. It pairs beautifully as a side dish with grilled chicken, salmon, or pork chops during the holidays. For a festive touch, serve it in a hollowed-out orange or acorn squash. Garnish with extra feta crumbles, walnuts, and a few whole cranberries for visual appeal.
How-to Summary
To make Cranberry Orzo Salad: cook and cool orzo pasta. Whisk olive oil, citrus juices, and honey for the dressing. In a large bowl, combine cooled orzo with cranberries, spinach, feta, and walnuts. Toss with the dressing and chill before serving for a refreshing, tangy, and sweet side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish. Prepare it up to a day in advance, store it covered in the refrigerator, and give it a good stir before serving. You may want to add extra spinach just before serving for freshness.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh? Absolutely. Dried cranberries (craisins) work perfectly and will add a chewier, sweeter element. No need to rehydrate them.
What can I substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese crumbles offer a similar tangy profile. For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or use a vegan feta alternative.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop.
Can I use a different nut? Yes. Pecans, pistachios, or sliced almonds are all delicious substitutes for walnuts, adding their own unique crunch and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding Dressing to Hot Orzo: Pouring dressing on warm pasta will cause it to absorb too much liquid and become gummy. Always ensure the orzo is completely cool.
- Overcooking the Orzo: Cook the pasta just to al dente. Mushy orzo will ruin the salad’s texture.
- Not Tossing Gently: Aggressive mixing can break the feta into a paste and bruise the spinach. Fold the ingredients together gently.
- Skipping the Chill Time: Serving immediately is fine, but the 30-minute chill allows the cranberries to soften slightly and the flavors to fully combine.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Orzo Salad is a celebration of textures and flavors, perfectly balancing sweet, tangy, and savory notes. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet elegant enough for any occasion. With its make-ahead convenience and versatile pairings, this recipe is sure to become a reliable favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the vibrant burst of flavor in every bite!