Description
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
⅓ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
½ tsp Dijon mustard
¼ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Directions:
Cook the Orzo: Boil orzo according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine orzo, spinach, cranberries, almonds, and feta.
Toss & Serve: Drizzle with dressing, toss well, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 320 per serving Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Toast the Almonds: In a small, dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Immediately transfer to a plate to cool.
- 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 and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta completely. Shake well to remove excess water.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk or shake together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper until the mixture is fully emulsified.
- Chop and Combine: While the orzo cools, roughly chop the fresh spinach. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, chopped spinach, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Toss and Rest: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until evenly coated. For best flavor, let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the orzo to absorb some of the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with various dishes. Serve it as a bright side to grilled chicken, salmon, or lamb chops. It’s also a fantastic standalone lunch. For a heartier meal, add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken. Garnish with extra crumbled feta and a lemon wedge for presentation.
How-to Summary
Toast almonds. Cook and cool orzo. Whisk dressing ingredients. Combine all salad components in a large bowl. Toss with dressing, let sit briefly, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, prepare the components separately. Combine the orzo, cranberries, almonds, and feta with half the dressing. Store covered in the fridge. Add the spinach and remaining dressing just before serving.
What can I substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese crumbles or salty ricotta salata are excellent substitutes. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan feta alternative or simply omit it.
Is there a gluten-free alternative to orzo? Yes. Use a gluten-free orzo pasta made from rice or corn, or substitute with an equal amount of cooked quinoa or small gluten-free pasta like ditalini.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the spinach will wilt significantly, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Can I use a different nut? Absolutely. Toasted pine nuts, pecans, or walnuts would work wonderfully in place of the almonds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Cooling the Orzo: Adding warm orzo will wilt the spinach and melt the feta. Ensure it is completely cooled after rinsing.
- Skipping the Toasting Step: Toasting the almonds is crucial for deepening their flavor and adding a necessary crunch to the salad’s texture.
- Overlooking Dressing Emulsion: Whisk the dressing vigorously so the honey and mustard fully incorporate with the oil, creating a cohesive flavor in every bite.
- Using Wilted Spinach: Ensure your spinach is fresh and crisp. Limp spinach will make the entire salad seem soggy.
Conclusion
This Orzo Spinach Salad is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—creamy, crunchy, tangy, and sweet. It comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight side, a portable lunch, or a contribution to a potluck. Its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing profile ensure it will become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy this bright and satisfying dish!