Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe

Crunchy fresh vegetables and leafy spinach pair beautifully with orzo pasta, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese in this Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe. This easy-to-make pasta salad is perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or just a wholesome weeknight dinner. Its vibrant colors and flavors will impress your guests while being simple enough for a quick lunch. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a side or a main, making it versatile for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and good fats from olives and olive oil, it’s nutritious and filling.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time! It stores well in the fridge for up to three days.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of spices, olives, and feta creates a delightful Mediterranean taste that pairs with various main dishes.
• Great for Gatherings: Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family get-togethers; everyone will love it!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the orzo evenly.
• Colander: Helps drain the orzo quickly without losing any pasta.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is necessary to combine all ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the vinaigrette smoothly.

Ingredients

Crunchy fresh vegetables and leafy spinach pair beautifully with orzo pasta, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese in this Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe.

Ingredients:
– 16 ounces orzo
– 3 cups baby spinach leaves, gently torn into large pieces
– 1 1/2 chopped red bell pepper, about one red bell pepper
– 1 cup cucumber, diced and seeded, about one medium
– 3/4 cup red onion, diced
– 5 ounces Castelvetrano green olives, drained and halved
– 5 ounces Kalamata pitted olives, drained and halved
– 7 ounces feta cheese
– 1/2 cup canola oil
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1 1/2 teaspoons oregano
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Season the water with salt and add the orzo. Cook it for about 10 minutes until tender. Drain the orzo in a colander, rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients in a Bowl

Transfer the cooled orzo to a large mixing bowl. Add the baby spinach leaves, chopped red bell pepper, diced cucumber, diced red onion, Castelvetrano green olives, Kalamata olives, and half of the crumbled feta cheese.

Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together canola oil, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture in the mixing bowl. Gently fold everything together until all pasta and veggies are well coated. Taste for seasoning adjustments if needed before topping with remaining feta cheese.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour or overnight to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe as a delightful side dish or main course!

How to Serve Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe

Serving Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a delightful way to enhance any meal or gathering. It is versatile and can be enjoyed in various styles, making it perfect for any occasion.

As a Main Dish

• A generous portion of Mediterranean Orzo Salad can serve as a satisfying main meal. Its combination of orzo, vegetables, and feta provides a balanced dish that’s filling yet refreshing.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for an easy and tasty side. The flavors complement meats beautifully while adding a vibrant touch to your plate.

At Picnics and Potlucks

• Mediterranean Orzo Salad is an excellent choice for outdoor gatherings. Its easy transportability and ability to be made in advance make it a go-to option for potlucks.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Portion the salad into meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week. This makes healthy eating convenient and delicious.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe

To achieve the best version of your Mediterranean Orzo Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Cook orzo al dente: This ensures that the pasta retains some bite and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the dressing.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs greatly enhance the flavor of your salad. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors as they meld together, creating a more enjoyable taste experience.
• Customize your olives: Feel free to mix different varieties of olives based on your preference; this adds unique flavor notes to your dish.
• Add protein: For extra heartiness, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to transform this salad into a complete meal.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for personal preference.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Mediterranean Orzo Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Juicy chicken marinated in lemon and herbs complements the salad’s freshness perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds depth and richness alongside the lightness of the salad.
3. Pita Bread with Hummus: Soft pita bread served with creamy hummus offers a fun dipping option that balances well with the salad’s flavors.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful bites provide an authentic Mediterranean touch that pairs well with orzo salad.
5. Feta Cheese Dip: A creamy dip made from feta cheese adds an extra layer of flavor while remaining consistent with Mediterranean cuisine.
6. Tzatziki Sauce: This refreshing yogurt-based sauce works wonderfully as a cool side that enhances the overall meal experience.
7. Tabbouleh Salad: Another grain-based dish, tabbouleh brings additional vibrant flavors and textures that complement the orzo salad beautifully.
8. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Seasoned shrimp grilled to perfection add a touch of elegance and protein that pairs nicely with this light salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the soaking step: Not rinsing the orzo after cooking can lead to clumping. Always rinse it under cold water to separate the pasta and cool it down.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Add fresh veggies like cucumber and bell pepper just before serving for a crunchy texture.
• Under-seasoning the salad: It’s easy to forget seasoning. Be sure to taste the salad after mixing in the vinaigrette and adjust salt and pepper as needed for flavor.
• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Check the expiration dates on olives and feta cheese to ensure they enhance your salad, not detract from it.
• Neglecting presentation: A well-presented salad is more appetizing. Layer your ingredients thoughtfully and top with crumbled feta just before serving for visual appeal.

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.
• Store in a single layer if possible to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe

• Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes in vegetables.
• If freezing is necessary, pack in a freezer-safe container.
• Consume within 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before use.

Reheating Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warm. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe special?

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe stands out due to its vibrant combination of fresh vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.

Can I customize my Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas, swap out veggies based on what you have on hand, or experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.

How do I make this Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. You can also add additional nuts or seeds for extra protein.

How long does this Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe last?

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. However, for optimal freshness, enjoy it within the first couple of days.

Can I serve this Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe warm?

While typically served cold or at room temperature, you can enjoy it warm if you prefer! Just make sure not to overcook any added ingredients when reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for meal prep or gatherings, you can easily customize it based on your preferences or seasonal ingredients. Try this refreshing dish today; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines crunchy vegetables, tender orzo pasta, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or a wholesome weeknight dinner. Within just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful salad that not only looks beautiful but also bursts with Mediterranean flavors. Ideal as a main course or a side dish, this salad is versatile enough to suit any occasion from picnics to potlucks. Enjoy the symphony of tastes and textures while keeping your meals healthy and satisfying.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 ounces orzo
• 3 cups baby spinach leaves
• 1 ½ cups chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• ¾ cup diced red onion
• 5 ounces Castelvetrano green olives
• 5 ounces Kalamata olives
• 7 ounces feta cheese
• ½ cup canola oil
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 ½ teaspoons oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the orzo in boiling salted water for about 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, spinach, bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, olives, and half of the feta cheese.
3. For the vinaigrette, whisk together canola oil, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and gently fold to coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to enhance flavors.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 15mg