Refreshing Mediterranean Orzo Salad Recipe for Summer Bliss

What’s that? A sunny day, a gentle breeze, and the tantalizing aroma of Mediterranean Orzo Salad wafting through the air? That’s the sound of summer calling! Picture this: perfectly cooked orzo, vibrant veggies, and zesty dressing all coming together in a bowl of deliciousness. avocado pasta salad recipe chickpea salad for a refreshing side This dish is like a vacation for your taste buds, transporting you straight to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking sparkling waves. For more inspiration, check out this Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe recipe.

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I remember the first time I made this salad; my friends declared it “life-changing.” Not only is it bursting with flavors and colors, but it also brings everyone together—perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just when you want to impress someone without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.

I once whipped up this salad for a family reunion, and my aunt couldn’t stop raving about it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Orzo Pasta: Choose the best quality you can find for a perfect texture; cook until al dente. For more inspiration, check out this Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta recipe.

• Cucumber: Go for English cucumbers; they’re crisp and add refreshing crunch.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy; slice them in half for bursts of flavor.

• Red Onion: Use thin slices to give sharpness without overpowering the dish.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess; opt for high-quality cheese for better flavor.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; don’t skimp on this vital ingredient!

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens everything up with its zingy flavor.

• Fresh Herbs (Parsley and Basil): Chopped fresh herbs elevate the salad’s flavor profile immensely.

• Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential; adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Orzo Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once at a rolling boil, add salt generously before tossing in 1 cup of orzo pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo cooks, chop 1 cucumber into small cubes and halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes. Slice half an onion very thinly. Your kitchen will now smell divine!

Mix Up the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil with the juice of one lemon. Add salt and pepper to taste—this is where the magic begins!

Toss Everything Together: Drain the orzo once cooked and rinse under cold water to cool down quickly. In a large bowl, combine orzo with chopped veggies and crumbled feta cheese.

Add Fresh Herbs: Chop up some parsley and basil (about ¼ cup each) and mix into your salad. These herbs will add an explosion of freshness that makes every bite unforgettable.

Dress It Up: Pour your lemon-olive oil dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—your palate deserves it!

Now that you’ve tackled these steps with finesse (and hopefully some giggles), serve your Mediterranean Orzo Salad immediately for maximum flavor impact—or let it chill in the fridge while you grab that glass of wine!

This delightful dish not only fills your belly but also nourishes your soul on those lovely summer days (or any day). Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the orzo until al dente, then rinse it under cold water to stop cooking. While it cools, chop your vegetables and whisk the dressing together for maximum flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on your preferences. Try adding feta cheese, olives, or even chickpeas for extra protein and flavor bursts.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Mediterranean Orzo Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, enjoy it cold without reheating to maintain its crispness.

Making this salad reminds me of summer picnics where friends gathered around, sharing laughter and delicious food. The compliments on this dish still make me smile!

FAQ

Can I add protein to the Mediterranean Orzo Salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp pairs beautifully with this refreshing salad. shrimp tacos for a complete meal. flavorful Caprese chicken dish.

How long can I store the Mediterranean Orzo Salad?

You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days without losing quality.

What is the best way to serve Mediterranean Orzo Salad?

Serve it chilled as a side dish or a light main course during summer gatherings!

Print

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

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• Author: recipesnew
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. With al dente orzo, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this salad is not just delicious but also easy to prepare. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a make-ahead lunch option, it brings together the flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite. Whether served as a side or a light main course, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 medium English cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the orzo pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Meanwhile, chop the cucumber into small cubes and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
5. Add chopped parsley and basil to the bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until well combined.
6. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving chilled.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Customize with seasonal veggies such as bell peppers or olives for added flavor.