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–+ servings

Orzo Salad Recipe

Orzo Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the freshness of garden vegetables and Mediterranean ingredients.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
  • 2 Persian cucumbers halved vertically, and sliced ¼-inch thick
  • 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas drained, and rinsed
  • ⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 4 ounces feta cheese cut into ¼-inch cubes
  • ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives
  • 1 recipe Greek Salad Dressing
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 cup fresh basil and/or mint leaves
  • Freshly ground black pepper
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Method
 

  1. Start by bringing a generously salted pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the orzo pasta following the package's instructions until it reaches a slightly past al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the orzo and mix it with a touch of olive oil to prevent clumping. Spread it out on a baking sheet to cool.
  2. Next, prepare the Greek Salad Dressing and incorporate the red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, oregano, and sea salt into the mix.
  3. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, Persian cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, cooked chickpeas, feta cubes, sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. Pour the dressing over the salad, add half of the herbs, and season with freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Garnish with the remaining herbs and serve immediately.

Notes

When making this Orzo Salad, the quality of your ingredients truly makes a difference. Opt for the freshest vegetables you can find, as they will provide the best flavor and texture. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Fresh basil and mint add a wonderful aroma and depth, but feel free to explore other herbs like dill or parsley.
For the best results, prepare the salad dressing in advance and let it sit for a while to allow the flavors to meld together. When tossing the salad, make sure each ingredient is well-coated with the dressing for a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
Lastly, remember that this salad can be easily customized. Add your favorite proteins, switch up the vegetables, or play around with different types of cheese. This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic option for various occasions and personal preferences. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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