*Orzo Salad
A vibrant and fresh orzo salad packed with feta, herbs, and tomatoes, perfect for warm weather gatherings or light lunches. Its bright lemon and olive oil dressing complement the creamy cheese and tender pasta, making it a versatile dish that appeals to vegetarians and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the orzo according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the orzo with cold water, then drain again.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked orzo with feta cheese, chopped parsley, chopped dill, and chopped tomato.
- In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the jar and shake vigorously to mix.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until the orzo is well coated.
- Refrigerate until cool, then toss again before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the feta cheese with goat cheese or a vegan alternative if desired. Fresh herbs can be swapped based on availability; basil or mint can also work well. If you prefer a heartier salad, add some cooked chickpeas or grilled vegetables. To enhance the Mediterranean flair, try incorporating olives or sun-dried tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This orzo salad makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or fish and pairs beautifully with Yogurt Herb Dressing. For a complete meal, serve it alongside stuffed pepper wedges or as part of a Mediterranean platter. It’s also perfect for picnics or potlucks, as it can be made ahead of time and served chilled.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover orzo salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier after a day. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to refresh the flavors, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of *Orzo Salad contains roughly 66 calories, with 5g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value) and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this orzo salad can be made a day in advance. Just prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine before serving to keep the orzo from becoming soggy. This allows the flavors to develop beautifully while ensuring freshness.
What can I add to make this salad more filling?
To make the orzo salad more filling, consider adding protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. You could also include roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. This makes it a satisfying main dish rather than just a side salad.
Can I use whole wheat orzo instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great substitute, offering more fiber and nutrients. It will add a nuttier flavor and a slightly different texture to the salad. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to package instructions for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).