Greek Orzo Salad
Indulge in the bright flavors of our Greek Orzo Salad, a delightful dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table. This salad combines tender orzo pasta with fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and a tangy dressing, making it an ideal choice for lunch, dinner, or a side dish at gatherings. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes for cooking the orzo.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 320 calories, 12g protein, 20g carbohydrates, 24g fat, and 3g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the orzo and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Add crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this salad by substituting quinoa for orzo for a gluten-free option or adding grilled chicken for extra protein. Other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can also be incorporated.
Serving and Pairings
This Greek Orzo Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as chicken or lamb, and works well as a light side dish alongside sandwiches or wraps. It’s also great on its own as a refreshing lunch option.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. It can also be frozen, but the texture of the vegetables may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the orzo can make it mushy, so be sure to check it frequently.
- Not cooling the orzo before mixing can cause the salad to become soggy.
- Forgetting to season the dressing can lead to bland flavors.
- Using too much vinegar can overpower the other ingredients.
- Not allowing the salad to chill can prevent the flavors from developing.
Helpful Tips
- For a zestier flavor, add lemon juice to the dressing.
- Include fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness.
- Make it a day ahead for even better flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like goat cheese.
FAQs
Can I make Greek Orzo Salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and the flavors will develop even more.
Is Greek Orzo Salad gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free orzo or quinoa as a substitute.
What can I add to Greek Orzo Salad for protein?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions that can enhance the protein content of the salad.
How long does Greek Orzo Salad last in the fridge?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container for best results.
Can I use different vegetables in the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or spinach based on your preference.
Conclusion
Greek Orzo Salad is a versatile and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its blend of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing makes it a favorite among many. Whether served as a main course or a side, this salad is sure to please everyone. Enjoy the flavors of Greece right at home!
Greek Orzo Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the orzo and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Add crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.