Are you craving a refreshing, flavorful pasta salad that's perfect for a summer picnic, a potluck, or a light yet satisfying weeknight dinner? Then look no further! This recipe recreates the beloved J. Alexander's Orzo Pasta Salad, a dish known for its vibrant Mediterranean flavors and satisfying texture. It’s one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly impressive, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick dinner idea. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this delicious dish!
Ingredients: A Mediterranean Delight
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings of this healthy meal. Adjust quantities as needed for your crowd.
- 1 pound orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions: Simple Steps to Pasta Perfection
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Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely. This ensures your salad stays refreshingly cool.
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Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes and cucumber, pit and halve the Kalamata olives, and finely chop the red onion, parsley, and dill.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. A little extra salt or lemon juice can really brighten the flavors.
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Combine and Chill: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, olives, feta cheese, red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, and dill. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss to coat evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break the orzo.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best flavor! Serve chilled and enjoy this best recipe!
Tips and Variations for a Personalized Touch
- Add Protein: For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or basil.
- Make it Ahead: This salad is even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 4-5g
This J. Alexander's inspired orzo pasta salad is a versatile and delicious dish perfect for any occasion. It's a simple yet elegant recipe that will impress your guests and leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy!