Checkerboard Orzo Salad
Description: This delightful Checkerboard Orzo Salad is a charming adaptation of a recipe by Rozanne Gold, a renowned cookbook author, whose culinary creations never fail to inspire. The hallmark of this salad is the checkerboard effect created when small cubes of tomato are tossed with tender orzo pasta. The addition of creamy goat cheese, melting into the warm pasta, lends a luscious texture and depth of flavor. Perfect for a leisurely lunch or a satisfying snack, this dish is sure to become a favorite among both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Cook Time: 1 hour (including resting time)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Recipe Category: Lunch/Snacks
Keywords: Cheese, Vegetable, Weeknight, Brunch, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, < 4 Hours, Easy
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 387.1
- Fat Content: 13.8g
- Saturated Fat Content: 9g
- Cholesterol Content: 33.6mg
- Sodium Content: 227.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 48.2g
- Fiber Content: 3.2g
- Sugar Content: 5.1g
- Protein Content: 17.6g
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 8 | Fresh tomatoes |
| Coarse salt | |
| Fresh ground black pepper | |
| 3/4 | Fresh thyme leaves |
| 3 | Orzo pasta |
| 4 | Goat cheese |
Recipe Instructions:
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Begin by preparing the tomatoes: Cut them into small 1/3-inch cubes. Place the cubed tomatoes in a bowl and sprinkle them generously with coarse salt, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh thyme leaves. Allow the seasoned tomatoes to rest at room temperature for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
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While the tomatoes are marinating, cook the orzo pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the orzo. Cook according to package instructions until the pasta is tender. Once cooked, drain the orzo and return it to the pot, removing it from the heat. Stir the orzo gently until any excess moisture evaporates.
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Now, it’s time to add the creamy goat cheese: Add the goat cheese to the warm orzo and stir it gently until it melts and coats the pasta evenly, creating a luxurious and creamy base.
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Next, incorporate half of the marinated tomatoes along with all their flavorful juices into the pot with the orzo and goat cheese. Gently toss the ingredients together until they are well combined, ensuring that the tomatoes are evenly distributed throughout the pasta. Taste and season the salad with additional salt, if desired.
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Transfer the Checkerboard Orzo Salad onto a serving platter, spreading it out evenly. Top the salad with the remaining marinated tomatoes, arranging them in a visually appealing checkerboard pattern for a delightful presentation.
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This vibrant salad can be served either warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. Serve it as a light lunch, a satisfying snack, or even as part of a brunch spread for a delightful culinary experience.
Chef’s Tips:
- For added flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes when they are in season. Their vibrant colors and unique taste will elevate this salad to new heights.
- Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper when marinating the tomatoes. Seasoning them generously will enhance their flavor and ensure they infuse the entire salad with their delicious taste.
- Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional ingredients such as olives, roasted red peppers, or fresh herbs to make it your own.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or gently reheat the salad in the microwave or on the stove for a quick and satisfying meal.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful Checkerboard Orzo Salad! 🥗🍅
