Orzo Salad(Orzo Is A Small Oval Pasta.)
A vibrant and refreshing orzo salad featuring fresh herbs, vegetables, and creamy dressing, perfect for light lunches, picnics, or as a versatile side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare orzo according to directions; drain and cool.
- Mix the cooked orzo with chopped green onion, minced parsley, minced mint, chopped carrot and green pepper, and peas.
- In a separate bowl, combine plain yogurt, mayonnaise, Tabasco, and black pepper.
- Add the dressing to the orzo mixture and stir to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or cucumbers for crunch. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can be excellent additions. This orzo salad pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes, enhancing the overall freshness of your meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this orzo salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics. It works wonderfully alongside grilled chicken or fish, making it a great complement to dishes like Summer Sole With Spring Vegies. For a complete meal, add a protein such as chickpeas or feta cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits. If the salad thickens while stored, stir in a little yogurt or water to bring it back to the desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orzo Salad(Orzo Is A Small Oval Pasta.) contains roughly 248 calories, with 15g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (146% of the Daily Value), iron (109% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 781mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
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 orzo salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance and allow the flavors to develop. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
What can I substitute for orzo if I can't find it?
If orzo is unavailable, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the substitute you choose.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This orzo salad is vegetarian-friendly and packed with fresh vegetables and herbs. For added protein, consider tossing in some chickpeas or white beans.
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).