Orzo Pasta Salad
This Orzo Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion. Bursting with vibrant colors and flavors, this salad combines tender orzo pasta with crisp veggies, tangy feta, and a zesty lemon-oregano vinaigrette. It’s versatile enough to serve at summer barbecues, picnics, or as a refreshing side at family dinners. The bright ingredients not only provide a delightful taste but also offer plenty of nutritional benefits.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh herbs, lemon juice, and feta creates a mouthwatering taste that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Dish: This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein from chickpeas, it’s a nutritious choice for any diet.
- Make Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for an hour or more!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Orzo Pasta Salad, gather the essential tools to ensure an easy cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander or sieve
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the orzo pasta evenly and efficiently.
- Colander or sieve: Helps drain the pasta without losing any pieces during rinsing.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients and tossing the salad together.
Ingredients
This bright Greek orzo pasta salad is a vibrant medley of crisp veggies, olives, feta, and fresh herbs tossed in a zesty lemon-oregano vinaigrette.
For the Dressing:
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces dry orzo pasta (about 1 1/4 cups)
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Orzo Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the dry orzo pasta. Stir well and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 8–10 minutes while stirring frequently until al dente. Drain the cooked orzo and rinse it under cold water to stop cooking. Allow it to drain thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the orzo cooks, make your dressing in a large mixing bowl. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice from half a lemon, minced garlic, oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the drained orzo to the bowl with dressing. Mix in diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, chopped red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss everything gently until all ingredients are well-coated in dressing.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
For enhanced flavor development, cover your salad with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving your Orzo Pasta Salad, add freshly chopped basil and parsley into the mix. Give it one final toss. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best enjoyment! Enjoy!
How to Serve Orzo Pasta Salad
Orzo pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, a family gathering, or as a light lunch, there are plenty of options to enhance your dining experience.
As a Main Course
- Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a filling meal that highlights the Mediterranean flavors.
- Serve it alongside roasted vegetables to create a colorful and nutritious plate.
As a Side Dish
- Offer it at barbecues or potlucks as a refreshing side that complements grilled meats.
- Use it to accompany soups or stews, adding a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
In Meal Prep
- Portion out servings in containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Mix in additional protein like chickpeas or diced turkey for an even heartier option.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top each serving with extra chopped basil or parsley just before serving for an aromatic touch.
- Drizzle with more olive oil or lemon juice for added brightness.
How to Perfect Orzo Pasta Salad
To make your orzo pasta salad truly shine, consider these simple tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.
- Cook the Orzo Al Dente: This ensures the pasta holds up well in the salad and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors as they meld together.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs elevate the dish’s taste and provide vibrant colors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavor.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add different veggies, nuts, or proteins based on your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Orzo Pasta Salad
Orzo pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal:
- Grilled Lemon Chicken: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection; its citrus notes harmonize beautifully with the salad.
- Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted until tender; this adds depth to your meal.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread infused with garlic butter; a perfect accompaniment to scoop up leftover salad dressing.
- Greek Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based dip made with cucumber and dill that adds creaminess alongside the salad.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful bites filled with rice and herbs are an excellent addition for those wanting more Mediterranean flair.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens dressed lightly allows you to balance richer flavors in your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a delicious Orzo Pasta Salad is easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Orzo: Cooking orzo for too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions for al dente texture.
- Skipping the Rinsing Step: Not rinsing the orzo after cooking can lead to clumping. Rinse it under cold water to stop cooking and separate the grains.
- Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish flavor. Fresh basil and parsley add vibrant taste and aroma.
- Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving immediately may result in a less flavorful salad. Chill your Orzo Pasta Salad for at least an hour to enhance flavors.
- Ignoring Personal Taste Preferences: Sticking strictly to the recipe can limit creativity. Feel free to adjust ingredients based on your taste, such as adding more veggies or proteins.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Orzo Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Orzo Pasta Salad
- While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it for later use.
- Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for optimal quality.
Reheating Orzo Pasta Salad
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the salad in a covered dish until warm, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place the salad in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it, and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orzo Pasta Salad?
Orzo Pasta Salad is a Mediterranean-inspired dish made with orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and a zesty vinaigrette.
Can I customize my Orzo Pasta Salad?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, roasted peppers, or different cheeses based on your preferences.
How long does Orzo Pasta Salad last?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, it lasts up to 3 days.
Is Orzo Pasta Gluten-Free?
Orzo is typically made from wheat; however, gluten-free versions are available. Check labels if you have dietary restrictions.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes! In fact, making Orzo Pasta Salad a few hours ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to add fresh herbs right before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Greek-inspired Orzo Pasta Salad is not only vibrant but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a side dish or main course, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try—you’ll love how refreshing and satisfying it is!
Orzo Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Orzo Pasta Salad is a delightful and vibrant dish that combines tender orzo pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-oregano vinaigrette. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or family dinners, offering a burst of flavors that will impress your guests. With its colorful ingredients and nutritional benefits, it’s not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Quick to prepare and versatile enough to serve as a light main course or side dish, this Orzo Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces dry orzo pasta
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the orzo in boiling chicken broth with lemon juice and salt for about 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled orzo to the dressing along with the cucumber, tomatoes, chickpeas, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Toss gently until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to enhance flavors.
- Just before serving, add fresh basil and parsley for an aromatic finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
