Orzo Salad Recipe

Overview

This Orzo Salad recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick and easy meal or a side dish for any occasion. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s a convenient option for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Fresh spinach, tangy feta cheese, colorful bell peppers, and briny Kalamata olives come together with orzo pasta to create a dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean-inspired goodness. Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a barbecue, or simply craving a light and satisfying meal, this Orzo Salad is sure to please your taste buds!

Nutritional Information

Calories: 431.2 per serving
Fat Content: 22.4g
Saturated Fat Content: 6.1g
Cholesterol Content: 16.7mg
Sodium Content: 377.5mg
Carbohydrate Content: 47.2g
Fiber Content: 3.3g
Sugar Content: 3.3g
Protein Content: 11.1g

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
6 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all the ingredients required for this delicious Orzo Salad.

2. Cook the Orzo Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add the orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
Once cooked, drain the orzo pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.

3. Chop and Prepare the Vegetables

While the orzo pasta is cooking, chop the fresh spinach into bite-sized pieces and dice the bell pepper.
Halve the Kalamata olives and crumble the feta cheese if not already crumbled.

4. Toss All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled orzo pasta with the chopped spinach, diced bell pepper, halved Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.

5. Season and Mix

Drizzle the salad with your favorite vinaigrette dressing or simply with olive oil and lemon juice.
Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring the dressing coats the salad evenly.

6. Chill or Serve Immediately

Once the salad is mixed, you can either chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together or serve it immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Orzo Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
Enjoy it as a light and satisfying main course for lunch or dinner.
Pack it up for picnics, potlucks, or outdoor gatherings.
Customize it with your favorite ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or red onion for added freshness and flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Give the salad a quick toss before serving again to redistribute the flavors.

Tips

For added protein, toss in some cooked and chopped chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Make it vegan-friendly by omitting the feta cheese or replacing it with a dairy-free alternative.
Adjust the seasonings and dressing according to your personal preference.
This Orzo Salad is highly customizable, so feel free to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and dressings to suit your taste.

Enjoy!

Savor every bite of this delightful Orzo Salad, packed with vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a side dish, or a main course, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends. Bon appétit! 🥗✨