Orzo Pasta Salad

Orzo Pasta Salad is a light, flavorful dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches. Made with tender orzo, fresh vegetables, and a zesty vinaigrette, this salad is refreshing, easy to make, and endlessly versatile.

Serve it as a side dish or a stand-alone meal, and watch it become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Light and Fresh: Packed with colorful veggies and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing dish.
2. Quick to Make: Ready in just 20 minutes, ideal for busy days.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like feta, chicken, or shrimp.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors improve with time and perfect for meal prep or parties.
5. Great for Any Occasion: Works as a side dish, light lunch, or potluck favorite.

What to Serve with Orzo Pasta Salad

1. Grilled Chicken or Fish: Complements the fresh, zesty flavors of the salad.
2. Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy addition to your meal.
3. Soup: Pair with a light soup, like minestrone or tomato basil.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Add even more color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing beverage to enhance the meal.

Yield: Serves 4-6

Orzo Pasta Salad

Print

A refreshing orzo pasta salad with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty vinaigrette. Perfect for any meal or occasion.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain, rinse under cold water, and transfer to a large bowl.
4. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, parsley, and feta (if using) to the bowl with the orzo.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
8. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

1. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice for a similar texture.
3. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
4. Veggie Variations: Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables.
5. Cheese Options: Substitute feta with goat cheese or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

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Frequently Answered Questions

Wrapping it up

Orzo Pasta Salad is a versatile and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. Its combination of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing makes it a winning combination.

This salad is both delicious and easy to prepare. Try it today and enjoy a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavors in every bite!