Description
1 cup orzo pasta
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook the orzo according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 280 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Orzo Salad every time.
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions (typically 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain in a colander.
- Cool the Pasta: Immediately rinse the drained orzo under cold running water. This stops the cooking process and cools it quickly, preventing clumping.
- Chop Ingredients: While the orzo cooks, prepare all vegetables and herbs. Ensure the cucumber, red onion, and sun-dried tomatoes are uniformly diced for even distribution.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is well emulsified.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled orzo, all chopped vegetables, olives, parsley, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Toss and Marinate: Pour the dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything until evenly coated. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in various settings. Serve it as a vibrant, stand-alone vegetarian lunch. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb chops for a hearty dinner. For a picnic or potluck, transport it in a sealed container and keep cool. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of feta just before serving for a fresh look.
How-to Summary
Boil and cool orzo pasta. Dice vegetables and combine them with the orzo, feta, and olives. Whisk olive oil, vinegar, and oregano for the dressing. Toss everything together and chill before serving for a refreshing, flavorful Mediterranean pasta salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to a day in advance, store it covered in the refrigerator, and add a small drizzle of olive oil before serving to refresh it.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
For a different flavor, try crumbled goat cheese or ricotta salata. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based feta alternative or creamy chickpeas.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, though the cucumber may soften slightly.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Small pastas like ditalini, small shells, or couscous work well as substitutes for orzo.
Is the sun-dried tomato oil usable?
Yes! If your sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, you can use that flavorful oil in place of the regular olive oil in the dressing for an extra flavor boost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Orzo: Cook only to al dente. Mushy pasta will ruin the salad’s texture.
- Skipping the Rinse: Not rinsing the hot orzo will cause it to stick together into a clumpy mass.
- Adding Dressing to Hot Pasta: Always cool the orzo completely before adding the dressing and fresh ingredients, otherwise the herbs will wilt and the feta will melt.
- Underseasoning: The cold pasta and vegetables need ample seasoning. Taste and adjust salt and pepper after chilling.
Conclusion
This Orzo Salad with sun-dried tomatoes and feta is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors that is both simple to prepare and impressive to serve. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a reliably delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Its balance of tangy, salty, and fresh ingredients makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll return to time and again.
