Greek Orzo Salad
Step aside, ordinary pasta salad—make way for orzo, the game-changer. Despite its rice-like appearance, orzo is not a grain but a delightful type of pasta. While it brings comfort to dishes like the beloved orzo al limone, it also serves as an excellent foundation for sensational salads. Whether you're planning a leisurely picnic in the park or contributing a fresh side dish to a potluck, this Greek-inspired orzo salad is sure to impress.This simple yet vibrant recipe features all our cherished Mediterranean flavors, such as juicy tomatoes, briny olives, refreshing cucumber, and tangy feta. However, feel free to customize it with your preferred vegetables, cheese, and dressing. If you're feeling adventurous, draw inspiration from our favorite pasta salad recipes (our Italian-inspired pasta salad is a fantastic option) and substitute the pasta with orzo.If you're preparing the salad in advance or have leftovers to store, it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—though it may be a challenge to resist devouring it before then.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp. freshly chopped dill, plus more for serving
- 1/4 c. minced red onion
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
FOR THE SALAD
- 8 oz. orzo
- 3 Persian cucumbers, sliced into thin half-moons
- 2 c. cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 (15.5-oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 c. pitted kalamata olives, halved
- 1 c. crumbled feta (about 1/4 lb.)
Instructions
- In a pot of salted boiling water, cook orzo according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and mustard. While whisking, slowly add oil until fully combined. Stir in dill and red onion, then season with salt and pepper.
- Make salad: Add orzo, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and olives to dressing and toss to coat. Fold in feta and serve with more dill on top.
Nutrition
Calories: 408kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 14gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 17mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 422mgFiber: 8gSugar: 7gCalcium: 163mgIron: 2mg
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