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Orzo Pasta Salad

A vibrant and versatile orzo pasta salad that combines unique textures with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium-sized Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Small Bowl

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 1.5 cups Orzo pasta The star of the dish, adds unique texture.
  • 3 cups Water To cook the orzo.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor while cooking.

Vegetables

  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved for sweetness and color.
  • 1 medium Cucumber Diced for crunch.
  • 1 unit Bell pepper Chopped, can be red or yellow.
  • 0.5 unit Red onion Finely diced for zest.

Cheese and Herbs

  • 0.5 cup Feta cheese Crumbled for creaminess.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh parsley Chopped for freshness.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh basil Chopped for fragrance.
  • 0.5 cup Olives Pitted and sliced for brininess.

Dressing

  • 0.33 cup Olive oil Base of the dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Freshly squeezed for brightness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano For aromatic depth.

Seasoning

  • to taste Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement.

Instructions
 

  • 1. Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the orzo pasta.
  • 2. Cook the orzo according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally.
  • 3. Drain the orzo and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.
  • 4. In a large mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped bell pepper, and finely diced red onion.
  • 5. Add the cooled orzo, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and sliced olives to the bowl.
  • 6. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • 7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  • 8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  • 9. Allow the salad to sit for 15-30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
  • 10. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra herbs or feta if desired.

Notes

This salad is versatile; feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables or proteins.
Keyword Easy