Fresh Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad
This bright and refreshing orzo salad is a crowd pleasing side dish that comes together in just a few minutes.
recipesbynani.comThere is something so special about a salad that tastes even better the next day. I love making this orzo pasta salad because it is packed with crunchy vegetables and a zesty dressing that makes every bite feel like a sunny afternoon. It is one of my favorite go to recipes when I need to bring a dish to a potluck or a neighborhood picnic.
My biggest tip for this recipe is to make sure you rinse your cooked orzo with cold water immediately after draining it. This stops the cooking process and keeps the grains from sticking together, which makes it much easier to toss with your dressing and veggies.
🧺 Ingredients
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👩🍳Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package directions until tender.
- 2
Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse it thoroughly with cold water until it is completely cool.
- 3
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- 4
Place the cooled orzo in a large mixing bowl and add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta, and parsley.
- 5
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything gently until well combined.
- 6
Serve immediately or let it sit in the refrigerator for an hour to allow the flavors to blend.
💡 Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the salad seems a bit dry after chilling, just add a small splash of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or a nice piece of crusty bread.
Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.
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