This Orzo Pasta Salad combines bright, fresh vegetables with hearty pasta and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy dressing that ties everything together. It’s the perfect light and healthy dish for any occasion. The crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives elevate the orzo, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Not only does it taste amazing, but this salad is also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side dish at a barbecue or as a main for a light lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to customize add grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or even chickpeas for extra protein. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or a summer gathering, this Orzo Pasta Salad will be the star of the table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 pound orzo pasta
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1 cucumber, diced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/2 red onion, finely chopped
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1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
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1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
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2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Cook the orzo pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
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In a large bowl, combine the orzo, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Orzo Pasta Salad: A Mediterranean-Inspired Delight
Orzo pasta salad is one of those versatile, flavorful dishes that can easily become a staple in your recipe repertoire. With its delicate, rice-like shape and ability to absorb flavors, orzo offers a perfect base for a variety of fresh ingredients and dressings. This Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad, featuring colorful vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta, is a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, preparing a light lunch, or looking for a make-ahead meal, this salad is sure to impress.
The Mediterranean Magic Behind Orzo Pasta Salad
Mediterranean cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, healthy fats, and bold, vibrant flavors. This Orzo Pasta Salad draws inspiration from those key elements, combining crisp vegetables like cucumber and tomatoes, along with Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a zesty dressing made with olive oil, lemon, and red wine vinegar. These ingredients come together to form a dish that not only bursts with flavor but is also packed with health benefits.
Orzo itself is a versatile pasta, often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes, due to its small size and ability to soak up the delicious flavors of whatever it’s paired with. The salad is a great source of healthy fats, thanks to the inclusion of olive oil, and is rich in fiber and antioxidants from the vegetables. The feta cheese adds a creamy, slightly tangy element that balances the dish perfectly.
Health Benefits of Orzo Pasta Salad
One of the biggest draws of orzo pasta salad is its balance of healthy ingredients, making it a nourishing choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.
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High in Fiber
The vegetables included in the salad cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions – are packed with fiber, helping to promote digestive health. Fiber also aids in maintaining a healthy weight, as it helps you feel fuller for longer, making it a great addition to a weight-conscious diet. -
Packed with Antioxidants
Tomatoes and cucumbers are rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body against harmful free radicals. These antioxidants also help reduce inflammation and support the immune system, contributing to overall well-being. -
Healthy Fats
The inclusion of olive oil in the dressing provides heart-healthy fats, which can improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Olive oil is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a fantastic addition to any diet. -
Calcium and Protein from Feta
Feta cheese, made from sheep or goat’s milk, is an excellent source of calcium and protein, essential for maintaining healthy bones and muscles. It also adds a creamy, salty flavor that complements the freshness of the vegetables. -
Customizable for Various Dietary Needs
One of the best things about this orzo pasta salad is how easily it can be customized to meet various dietary preferences. For those who are vegetarian, the salad is already a suitable choice, and for vegan diets, swapping out the feta cheese for a plant-based alternative will ensure the dish remains dairy-free. It can also be made gluten-free by using gluten-free orzo or substituting with other grains like quinoa or rice.
Versatility of Orzo Pasta Salad
Another reason this orzo pasta salad is so beloved is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your tastes or the ingredients you have on hand. If you’re a fan of roasted vegetables, feel free to toss in some roasted red peppers, eggplant, or zucchini for added depth of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of olives or add fresh herbs like basil or mint for extra vibrancy.
This pasta salad works equally well as a side dish or a main course, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual lunch with friends, serving it as a side to grilled meats at a barbecue, or bringing it to a potluck, orzo pasta salad is sure to be a hit.
A Great Make-Ahead Option
Orzo pasta salad is a fantastic dish for meal prep. It can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together overnight. The pasta absorbs the dressing over time, making the salad even more flavorful the next day. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch or dinner, you can easily pack it up for a grab and go meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. It also holds up well in the fridge for several days, making it a great choice for those busy weeks when you need a quick, nutritious meal.
The Perfect Summer Dish
There’s something undeniably refreshing about orzo pasta salad, making it the perfect dish for hot summer days. The crisp vegetables and zesty dressing are incredibly satisfying without being too heavy, making it an ideal choice for warm-weather meals. Whether served at a picnic, a BBQ, or a family gathering, this salad will add a burst of color to your table and will be a crowd-pleaser every time.
You can even add grilled chicken, shrimp, or other protein options to turn this into a more substantial meal. For vegetarians or vegans, chickpeas or other legumes are excellent additions that provide a protein boost. Its versatility means it can fit any dietary need, while still being a light, fresh dish perfect for outdoor dining.
Conclusion:
Orzo pasta salad is an incredibly versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a wide range of occasions. From its Mediterranean roots to its endless customization options, it’s a meal that can be adapted to suit any taste. Whether served as a side or as the main attraction, this salad provides a healthy and delicious option for any meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy feta, briny olives, and a tangy olive oil dressing makes for a refreshing and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed year-round.
Its ease of preparation and ability to be made ahead of time make it a go-to recipe for busy days, summer gatherings, and meal prep alike. With its abundant health benefits, versatility, and vibrant flavors, Orzo Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and variations the possibilities are endless. Whether you stick to the classic version or make your own twist, you’re sure to enjoy this delicious dish.