Take your taste buds on a Mediterranean getaway with this Mediterranean Orzo Salad! Packed with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy olives, and creamy feta, it’s a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a gathering, or simply craving vibrant flavors, this salad has you covered.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Imperial | Metric (grams) |
|---|---|---|
| Orzo pasta | 8 oz | 225 g |
| Cherry tomatoes (halved) | 1 cup | 150 g |
| Cucumber (diced) | 1 medium | ~200 g |
| Red onion (finely diced) | 1/4 cup | ~40 g |
| Kalamata olives (sliced) | 1/2 cup | 75 g |
| Feta cheese (crumbled) | 1/2 cup | 75 g |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1/4 cup | 15 g |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | 45 ml |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | 30 ml |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove | ~3 g |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 tsp | 1.5 g |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | — |
Kitchen Accessories Needed
- Medium pot for boiling pasta
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Whisk
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve or Chill: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fats: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Servings: 4
Recipe Origin: Inspired by classic Mediterranean flavors, this orzo salad is a modern twist on traditional dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or quinoa for a similar texture.
2. How long does this salad keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors improve as it sits!
3. Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Skip the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
4. What other veggies can I add?
Bell peppers, spinach, or artichoke hearts would make great additions to this salad.
5. Can I serve this salad warm?
Yes! While it’s typically served chilled, you can enjoy it warm as a side or light main dish.
6. What protein can I add to make it a complete meal?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas pair wonderfully with this Mediterranean orzo salad.
This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a light main, it’s guaranteed to impress. Need a reliable mixing bowl to toss everything together? Check out our Recommended Mixing Bowl Here and make your cooking experience seamless!
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