This colorful Orzo Pasta Salad is your go-to dish for any occasion, from summer picnics to festive gatherings. It features tender orzo pasta tossed with fresh veggies, briny olives, creamy feta, and a tangy lemon-oregano dressing. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special events.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Salad
- How to Make Orzo Pasta Salad
- Step 1: Cook the Orzo
- Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Step 4: Chill Before Serving
- Step 5: Final Touches
- How to Serve Orzo Pasta Salad
- As a Main Dish
- At a Picnic or BBQ
- As a Side Dish
- For Meal Prep
- How to Perfect Orzo Pasta Salad
- Best Side Dishes for Orzo Pasta Salad
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Orzo Pasta Salad
- Reheating Orzo Pasta Salad
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Orzo Pasta Salad?
- Can I customize my Orzo Pasta Salad?
- How do I make Orzo Pasta Salad gluten-free?
- Is Orzo Pasta Salad healthy?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meals.
- Flavorful and Fresh: The bright flavors of lemon and herbs combined with fresh ingredients create a taste sensation that everyone will love.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, main course, or even as a light lunch. It pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a vegetarian option.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge for an hour or more before serving.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas, this salad is not only tasty but also healthy.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delightful Orzo Pasta Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the orzo evenly and efficiently.
- Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly after cooking, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy tossing of all ingredients without spilling.
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 Salad
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 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 orzo to the boiling mixture.
– Stir well and reduce the heat to medium-low.
– Cook for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is al dente.
– Drain using a colander and rinse under cold water.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the orzo cooks, make the dressing in a large mixing bowl.
– Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper until combined.
– Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the orzo has cooled down:
– Add cooked orzo to the bowl with dressing.
– Toss in diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, finely chopped red onion, halved olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
– Gently mix until everything is well-coated with dressing.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
For optimal flavor:
– Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
– Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Step 5: Final Touches
Just before serving:
– Add freshly chopped basil and parsley to the salad.
– Give everything one last toss for even distribution of flavors.
Enjoy your refreshing Orzo Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature!
How to Serve Orzo Pasta Salad
Orzo pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a main course or a side, this salad brings freshness and flavor to any meal.
As a Main Dish
- Pair with grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a complete vegetarian option.
At a Picnic or BBQ
- Bring it in a large bowl to share with friends and family.
- Pack in individual servings for easy grab-and-go lunches.
As a Side Dish
- Complement steak or fish with this refreshing salad.
- Offer it alongside your favorite grilled meats for a summer feast.
For Meal Prep
- Store in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
- Add fresh herbs just before serving to keep flavors vibrant.
How to Perfect Orzo Pasta Salad
To ensure your orzo pasta salad turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Cook orzo al dente: This ensures the pasta maintains its texture and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with dressing.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs enhance the flavor, making the salad more vibrant and enjoyable.
- Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Adjust seasoning: Always taste and tweak the dressing before adding it to the salad; each ingredient can vary in strength.
- Add protein: Consider adding grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu for added nutrition and heartiness.
- Experiment with variations: Try different cheeses, nuts, or seasonal vegetables to keep it exciting.
Best Side Dishes for Orzo Pasta Salad
Orzo pasta salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add depth and smokiness.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Juicy chicken breast marinated in lemon and herbs enhances the Mediterranean theme.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a satisfying contrast in texture alongside the salad.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for an easy-to-eat appetizer.
- Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus with pita chips and fresh veggies creates a colorful spread.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: These flavorful bites pair well with orzo’s Mediterranean essence.
- Crispy Couscous Cakes: Lightly fried couscous cakes provide an interesting twist on grains.
- Greek Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt dip can balance the zesty notes of your pasta salad nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making orzo pasta salad, it’s easy to overlook key details that can elevate your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the rinse: Rinsing cooked orzo under cold water stops the cooking process and prevents clumping. Always rinse to enhance texture.
- Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning the dressing enough can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and add salt or herbs to enhance taste.
- Overcooking the orzo: Cooking orzo too long makes it mushy. Aim for al dente for the perfect bite in your salad.
- Not chilling before serving: Serving immediately can diminish flavor. Chill the salad for at least an hour to let the ingredients meld together.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh basil and parsley add a burst of flavor that dried herbs can’t match. Don’t skip them for a more vibrant dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Orzo Pasta Salad
- Place in a freezer-safe container.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, note that texture may change upon thawing.
Reheating Orzo Pasta Salad
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad in a baking dish and cover with foil, heating for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orzo Pasta Salad?
Orzo pasta salad is a refreshing mix of cooked orzo pasta, vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and dressed with a zesty vinaigrette.
Can I customize my Orzo Pasta Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies, proteins like chicken or shrimp, or swap out the cheese based on preference.
How do I make Orzo Pasta Salad gluten-free?
Use gluten-free orzo pasta made from rice or quinoa as a substitute while following the same recipe for delicious results.
Is Orzo Pasta Salad healthy?
Yes! With fresh vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas, this salad is packed with nutrients while being low in calories.
Final Thoughts
This Greek orzo pasta salad is not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. You can easily adapt it by adding seasonal veggies or proteins of your choice. Enjoy this vibrant dish at gatherings or as a refreshing meal any time!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Orzo Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Orzo Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to festive gatherings. This delightful salad features tender orzo pasta combined with crisp vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon-oregano vinaigrette. Not only is it quick to prepare—taking just 25 minutes—but it also makes for excellent meal prep, allowing you to savor fresh flavors throughout the week. This versatile salad can be served as a main course, side dish, or light lunch, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or special events. Packed with nutritious ingredients like chickpeas and fresh veggies, this Orzo Pasta Salad is not only delicious but healthy too.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces dry orzo pasta
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh basil and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: In a large pot, bring low-sodium chicken broth to a boil. Add orzo and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Make the dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Combine ingredients: Add cooled orzo to the dressing along with cucumber, tomatoes, chickpeas, olives, and feta. Toss gently until well mixed.
- Chill before serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Serve: Just before serving, add chopped basil and parsley. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (220g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
