Description
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups arugula, chopped
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
½ cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, toss the cooked orzo with olive oil, arugula, feta cheese, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mix well until the are evenly combined and the orzo is coated with the yogurt dressing.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled version.
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Kcal: 290 per serving Servings: 2 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Orzo Arugula Salad every time.
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package directions (typically 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain well in a colander. For best results, rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking and prevent clumping.
- Prepare the Dressing: While the orzo cooks, make the creamy dressing. In your large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the drained, slightly cooled orzo to the bowl with the dressing. Using a spatula, fold until the orzo is thoroughly coated. Gently fold in the chopped arugula and crumbled feta cheese. Be careful not to over-mix once the arugula is added to keep it from wilting too much.
- Chill and Serve: For optimal flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the pasta to absorb the dressing and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in many settings. Serve it as a light, protein-packed main course for lunch. It also makes an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, salmon, or lamb chops. For a picnic or potluck, transport it in a sealed container and keep it cool. Garnish with extra fresh dill, a sprinkle of feta, or a lemon wedge just before serving for a beautiful presentation.
How-to Summary
Quickly cook and drain orzo pasta. Whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon, dill, and spices to create a creamy dressing. Toss the cooled orzo with the dressing, then gently fold in arugula and feta. Chill before serving to enhance the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. If it thickens, stir in a teaspoon of water or lemon juice before serving.
What can I use instead of arugula? Baby spinach, finely chopped kale, or fresh parsley make excellent substitutes if you prefer a less peppery green.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt? Yes, you can use an equal amount of sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. The tanginess is key to the dressing.
Can I add protein to this salad? Definitely. Grilled shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, chickpeas, or flaked tuna would be delicious additions to make it more filling.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The arugula will soften but the flavors will remain delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Orzo: Mushy orzo will ruin the salad’s texture. Cook only to al dente and rinse with cool water.
- Mixing While Hot: Adding the yogurt dressing to very hot orzo can cause the yogurt to separate or become grainy. Let the pasta cool slightly first.
- Over-mixing the Arugula: Folding the arugula in too vigorously will cause it to wilt excessively. Gently combine it at the final step.
- Skipping the Chill Time: Serving immediately is fine, but the 30-minute rest in the fridge significantly improves flavor integration.
Conclusion
This Orzo Arugula Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and peppery flavors, all ready in about 15 minutes of active time. Its simple preparation and flexible nature make it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a consistently delicious dish that is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy this refreshing and satisfying salad!
