Looking for a light and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion? This Easy Orzo Salad is just what you need! With tender orzo pasta, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, it’s an effortless way to impress your guests or enjoy a delicious meal at home.
Transform simple ingredients into a delightful salad that balances flavors and textures. This easy orzo salad recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, making it a fantastic choice for summer picnics, potlucks, or a quick weekday meal.
With its bright colors and fresh ingredients, this Easy Orzo Salad recipe will brighten up your table and bring joy to your taste buds.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Fresh Taste
The base of this Easy Orzo Salad consists of fluffy orzo pasta, which serves as the perfect canvas for the colorful additions. This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the accompanying ingredients beautifully.
Halved cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while diced cucumbers contribute a refreshing crunch. The addition of crumbled feta cheese brings a creamy texture that contrasts delightfully with the crisp veggies.
Creating the Perfect Dressing
A light lemon vinaigrette ties this salad together, enhancing the fresh flavors without overpowering them. The combination of olive oil and lemon juice creates a zesty dressing that perfectly complements the salad’s vibrant ingredients.
For those who enjoy a bit of a kick, seasoning with salt and pepper can elevate the flavors even further. Whisking these ingredients together results in a simple yet effective dressing that makes this Easy Orzo Salad recipe a breeze to prepare.
Customizing Your Salad
One of the best aspects of this Easy Orzo Salad is its versatility. While the recipe includes cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, feel free to make it your own by adding other vegetables you love. Bell peppers, olives, or even spinach can enhance both the flavor and visual appeal.
If you’re looking to add protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier dish. This customization ensures that the salad can adapt to various tastes and dietary preferences, making it suitable for any occasion.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This refreshing salad is ideal for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a quick weekday meal. Its ability to be served warm or cold makes it a versatile option that fits into any meal plan. Whether shared with friends at a gathering or enjoyed as a light lunch, this Easy Orzo Salad will surely impress.
Its bright colors and fresh ingredients bring a cheerful atmosphere to any table, making it not just a dish, but a centerpiece for your dining experience.
Serving Suggestions
To serve this salad, simply ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Drizzling extra lemon dressing on top can also enhance the zesty flavor profile that makes this Easy Orzo Salad so delightful.
For a complete meal, pair it with grilled meats or seafood, or enjoy it on its own as a standalone dish. Either way, it promises to be satisfying and full of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
This Easy Orzo Salad not only pleases the palate but also offers nutritional benefits. With fresh vegetables packed with vitamins and the wholesome goodness of orzo, it’s a balanced dish that can fit into a healthy eating plan.
At approximately 220 calories per serving, this salad can be a guilt-free option that fills you up without weighing you down. Enjoy the vibrant flavors while nurturing your body with this nutrient-rich meal.
Easy Orzo Salad Recipe
Course: Pasta, Salads4
servings10
minutes10
minutes220
kcal20
minutesRecipe Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the Orzo: In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo is cooking, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the red onion and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve immediately or refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
